Building the Future of Grand Rapids with Kara Wood
Sep 26, 2025
How Grand Action 2.0 is Transforming Downtown & Beyond
When you think about the people shaping the future of West Michigan, Kara Wood is at the top of the list. As the Executive Director of Grand Action 2.0, Kara leads the transformational projects that are reimagining downtown Grand Rapids—making the city an even more extraordinary place to live, work, and play.
From the Amway Stadium to the soon-to-open Acrisure Amphitheater, Grand Action 2.0 builds on the legacy of projects like Van Andel Arena and DeVos Place—landmarks that have already changed the skyline, economy, and heartbeat of the city. What makes this possible? A one-of-a-kind model of public-private partnerships where local families, businesses, and philanthropists invest not for financial gain, but for community growth.
Kara’s excitement is contagious as she talks about reconnecting people to the Grand River, expanding green spaces, and enhancing connectivity with the White Pine Trail. These projects aren’t just construction—they’re community investments that will create spaces for everyone to gather, celebrate, and thrive.
Grand Rapids’ evolution is proof of what happens when vision, philanthropy, and passion collide. Whether you’re a visitor or considering making the move, now is the time to experience the energy, growth, and cool people making West Michigan shine.
Keywords
Grand Rapids development, Grand Action 2.0, Kara Wood, Amway Stadium, Accrisure Amphitheater, Van Andel Arena, DeVos Place, West Michigan lifestyle, moving to Grand Rapids, Grand Rapids riverfront