East Grand Rapids, city in Kent County, Michigan, United States
East Grand Rapids is a small city about 4 miles east of downtown Grand Rapids, Michigan. It features well-kept neighborhoods, quiet streets, and parks centered around Reeds Lake, a large body of water where residents and visitors enjoy outdoor recreation.
The city was founded by the Reeds family in the 1830s, giving the lake its name. A notable chapter was Ramona Park, an amusement park that operated for nearly 60 years from the late 1800s until 1955, creating memorable summer experiences for generations of visitors.
The name Gaslight Village reflects the area's past when streets were lit by gas lamps. Today this shopping district serves as the heart of community life, where residents gather at cafes, browse local shops, and meet with friends.
The city is highly walkable with well-connected parks, libraries, and shopping areas accessible on foot. Most public spaces are accessible to people with mobility challenges, and public transportation connects the area to downtown Grand Rapids.
A notable feature is a bronze statue of President Gerald Ford, who was a long-time resident and member of Congress from the area. The statue stands outside the local library and is a smaller version of the one that stands in the National Capitol in Washington, DC.
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