Rep. Scholten Secures Federal Dollars to Replace East Beltline Bridge

GRAND RAPIDS, MI – Today, U.S. Congresswoman Hillary Scholten (MI03) announced a $25 million federal grant to replace the East Beltline Bridge over I-96 during a press conference with Michigan Department of Transportation (MDOT) officials and local leaders. The investment will enhance transportation infrastructure, improve connectivity for drivers, cyclists, and pedestrians, while supporting economic growth in the Grand Rapids region. Scholten also highlighted that funding for projects like these is at risk due to efforts by President Trump and House Republicans to gut the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law.

 “This investment is a game-changer for Grand Rapids, ensuring our infrastructure is safer, more accessible, and built to last. The East Beltline Bridge replacement is just one example of how federal investments directly benefit our communities and help grow our local economy,” said Rep.Scholten. “This bridge is more than concrete and steel—it is a symbol of what we can accomplish when we come together as a community. A stronger, safer East Beltline Bridge means a stronger, safer Grand Rapids. We cannot afford to let partisan politics stand in the way of critical infrastructure improvements.”

“This $25 million grant does so much more than just replace the East beltline Bridge–it really connects our community,” said Michigan Senate Majority Leader Winnie Brinks. “It expands access to multi-modal transportation like bicycling and walking, which is so important for thriving communities. It fosters economic growth, it improves accessibility, it supports our sustainability goals, and it helps make Grand Rapids a better, safer place to live, to work and play.”

“We realize how important the work that we do is to the communities, is to the people that are here, and the economy as well,” said MDOT Director Brad Wieferich.  “Not only is this going to be replacing the structure, providing additional lanes, that’s going to improve congestion, you’re going to have direct auxiliary lanes that go to the ramps, so you’re not going to have those pinch points. But it’s going to set us up for even more work in the future, for a big vision for this whole area.”

“Our strong economy and lively communities have pushed the limits of some of the roads and bridges, but this year we’ll see major improvements,” said State Sen. Mark Huizenga. “East beltline Bridge comes at a really critical time for our community, and as we continue to grow and thrive. We need that infrastructure to make us all successful.”

“Thank you to Congresswoman Scholten, to Senator Brinks, State Senator Huizenga, as well MDOT, the Michigan infrastructure office for their work in securing this funding, the city heartedly expressed our support in the grant application process for this as it aligns very much so with our goals of improving multi-modal access and mobility options for all,” said Grand Rapids City Engineer Tim Burkman.

The funding, allocated through the RAISE (Rebuilding American Infrastructure with Sustainability and Equity) program, will allow MDOT to replace the bridge. It will also incorporate expanded vehicle lanes, ADA-compliant pedestrian walkways, and dedicated bicycle infrastructure. These improvements will create safer and more accessible transportation options for Grand Rapids.

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