10/29/2026
🚧 Planning Today for Better Traffic Flow Tomorrow!
The commercial district at Knapp’s Corner has experienced stormwater retention challenges, prompting the Kent County Drain Commission to move forward with a major drainage improvement project. The project involves constructing a 3-mile-long gravity pipeline using 30-inch reinforced concrete pipe to convey stormwater from the detention basin to the Thornapple River.
Communication and proactive planning are key to keeping projects moving while minimizing disruptions to the traveling public. With anticipated road construction on East Beltline Road next year, Prein&Newhof, the project’s design engineer, and K&R Construction are coordinating construction activities to help maintain the best possible traffic flow during the upcoming improvements.
This fall, K&R Construction installed 150 feet of 30-inch reinforced concrete pipe at the downstream end of the project near the intersection of 3 Mile Road and Grand River Drive. By completing this portion ahead of next year’s roadwork, the team is helping avoid additional construction conflicts along roads expected to serve as detour routes during the East Beltline Road upgrades.
This is a great example of how communication, coordination, and thoughtful construction scheduling can help deliver essential infrastructure improvements while considering the needs of motorists, local businesses, and the surrounding community.
