Will bringing the rapids back to Grand Rapids be a boom or bust scenario for this Midwest city, the second largest in the state of Michigan?  The answer is different depending on who is talking.

Local whitewater enthusiasts pushing for the creation of a whitewater course on the Grand River in downtown Grand Rapids,  and restoration of the historic rapids there by removing or modifying a large dam,  say the benefits are plentiful, economically, socially and for the popular fishery there. But anglers who know the river are not in full agreement. And then there is the issue of sea lamprey and keeping them out of the state’s largest river system.

A story today on MiBiz discusses the pros and cons and the economic values in play with the proposed change. Read more: Restoring the Rapids