City of Big Rapids
Master Plan
Mecosta County, Michigan
The City of Big Rapids is home to Ferris State University and has an abundance of natural and cultural resources including the Muskegon River and the White Pine Trail. The City has a downtown surrounded by historic, walkable neighborhoods, popular commercial corridors that contribute to the local economy’s diversity. The City is focused on earning MEDC RRC certification, and the update to the master plan marked a significant milestone in that process.
Williams & Works guided the City through a comprehensive revision of their master plan that was shaped by community involvement. The engagement approach included pop-up events at a local festival and farmer’s market, six stakeholder focus group meetings, and a community survey. Community members also participated in a two-day charrette where they envisioned improved housing options, a nonmotorized network, a thriving downtown, and a revitalized commercial corridor. The engagement process finished with an open house where important themes and the draft document were available for review.
Through the master planning process, a Sub Area Plan for a new residential development for the City’s Housing Commission was created, a vision for the City’s Eastside neighborhood was established, and the city-wide nonmotorized plan was updated, which includes guidance for the installation of a complete sidewalk network, recommendations for bike lanes, and several intersection improvements. The development of the updated master plan took nearly two years to complete and the plan was adopted in 2025.
