The City of Grand Rapids’ Downtown Development Authority (DDA) has tentatively approved giving $1.8 million dollars to Robert Grooters Development Co. for its construction of an $80 million condominium tower called Riverhouse next to the Bridgewater Tower. Developer Robert Grooters requested the money stating that without it the tower may not be built, arguing that he needs the money for compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), including specially made light switches and door handles, an elevator, and lifts for the pool and hot tub. Condominiums in the Riverhouse development will start at $170,000.
Most of the money will fund enhancements that are only available to condominium residents, marking a departure from the DDA’s traditional funding of public improvements in order to increase private investment, as was the case with the $5 million the DDA gave to the Alticor for improvements to public walkways as part of its JW Marriott hotel.
