Grand Rapids Sets Up $35M Bond to Fund New Firefighter Center

Grand Rapids is planning to raise up to $35 million through bonds for a new fire training facility. The city’s commission recently approved a notice that starts a 45‑day period where residents can petition for a public vote on the bond. If no one challenges it, the commission will need to pass a final resolution before the bonds are sold. The new center will cost $47. 2 million, but the city already secured nearly $16 million in grants. That still leaves a gap of more than $31 million, which the bonds aim to fill. City officials say they are asking for a little extra—$35 million—to cover unexpected expenses during construction. Construction began last summer on a 97, 875‑square‑foot campus that will bring together the department’s training rooms, maintenance shop and emergency operations center. The building also includes a five‑story burn structure for live fire drills. Chief Brad Brown says the project should be ready by spring 2027.During a fiscal committee meeting, Commissioner AliciaMarie Belchak raised concerns about how the city uses bonds for projects. City financial officer Molly Clarin explained that bonds help spread costs over many years, allowing several generations of residents to share the expense. “It’s a way for people now and their children in the future to help pay for something that benefits everyone, ” she said. The plan reflects a broader strategy of financing long‑term public assets with capital improvement bonds. By tying the cost to future tax revenue, the city hopes to keep current budgets stable while still investing in essential services.