From 2013 to 2015, Fishbeck assisted the City of Grand Rapids with grant applications, preliminary/final design, and construction of 3.5 miles of multi-use pathway on the west side of the Grand River. As part of a larger regional multi-modal conductivity plan, the new pathway completed the final link between the Oxford Trail to the south and the White Pine Trail to the north of town.
The pathway corridor, formally industrial properties related to the furniture industry, include several neighborhood business districts, the GVSU downtown campus, and downtown residential areas. It also includes current and former railroad property. The majority of the pathway is independent from roadways, but, where necessary, is within the roadway cross-section.
Challenging design considerations included: creek crossings, a large retaining wall at the US-131/Ann Street underpass, railroad crossings, and traffic signaling at busy intersections. Features of the pathway included: rest areas, bike lockers, picnic shelters, waste receptacles, bike racks, and security cameras.
