Project partners, funders, elected officials and community leaders join ceremony to kick off two-year construction schedule for $175 million downtown professional soccer stadium
Grand Action 2.0 hosted a ceremonial groundbreaking this afternoon to kick off construction on the Amway Stadium in downtown Grand Rapids. Construction on the 8,500-seat, $175 million downtown professional soccer stadium is slated for completion in the spring of 2027.
Approximately 200 business, government, and community leaders attended the event.
“When Grand Rapids sets its sights on doing something great, we bring everyone to the table,” said Grand Rapids Mayor David LaGrand. “This project was shaped intentionally to align with the City’s Bridge South Plan and the West Side Corridor Improvement Authority’s vision. That kind of alignment—between the public and private sectors, between plans and place—doesn’t happen by accident. It happens because people care deeply about our city’s future and work hard to make the puzzle pieces fit. This stadium is a testament to what we can achieve when we come together, listen to one another, and work toward a shared vision for our city's future.”
Grand Action Co-chair Dick DeVos used the opportunity to envision what the Amway Stadium will mean for area fans and families.
“To the fans here today, today’s groundbreaking celebration is a historic day for Grand Rapids. You are part of it, and this stadium is for you,” DeVos said. “It will be a world-class facility where you can rally behind your hometown team, watch world-class players, and celebrate many future championships. But beyond the competition, it will be a place for families, friends, and neighbors to come together and share unforgettable memories.”
Director of the Amway Brand, Will Templeton, spoke about what drove the company’s $33 million lead gift to support the stadium.
“Amway is honored to serve as the title sponsor of the Amway Stadium, a landmark venue that showcases the pride we have in our local community of more than 65 years,” said Director of the Amway Brand Will Templeton. “This sponsorship represents Amway’s ongoing commitment to build stronger communities and create opportunities that bring people together in meaningful ways.”
Rockford will lead stadium construction in a joint venture with AECOM Hunt. Shane Napper, president and CEO of Rockford, acknowledged the collaborations required to make projects of this size a reality.
"Big projects that create big impact require big teams and strong collaboration, and this one is no different," said Napper.
In December 2024, the Van Andel and DeVos families, owners of West Michigan Soccer, announced that the team will play in MLS NEXT Pro, with competition due to start in the Amway Stadium in spring 2027.
