On Tuesday, August 13, the Holland City Council met to hear discourse regarding the project that aims to revamp the South Washington Ave and Michigan Ave corridors in order to achieve a more inviting, visually-appealing entrance into the city.
The area stretches from the busy Michigan/State/River intersections all the way south to US 31. The two roads carry nearly 16,500 vehicles a day, with about 10–15% of that being commercial traffic.
Speed studies note that 85% of motorists tend to travel at around 42 mph—well above the comfortable range for pedestrians and cyclists.
The reimagining hopes to improve the intersection corridors by enhancing their aesthetics for a clean, inviting appeal as well as to ensure pedestrian safety.
The Vision
The plan has been constructed over a few years, recently added as a large component to the 2023 Master Plan.
The plan aims to bring the city’s Complete Streets philosophy to life—balancing vehicle flow while maintaining a safe, attractive, and accessible space for all types of users.
Concepts under consideration include:
• A pedestrian refuge island with enhanced crosswalks
• ADA-compliant sidewalks and ramps
• Visually-appealing medians, landscaping, and street ramps
• Improved street lighting and street furniture to improve safety and aesthetics
• Six new corridor cross-section designs—three for each avenue—offering different mixes of travel lanes, bike lanes, and green spaces
It’s more than just safety components; the corridor is a visual gateway for the city.
The City of Holland is known for its pristine sidewalks and streets. As you enter the city, it’s immediately clear you’ve arrived in a well-cared-for community where attention to detail shapes both its charm and character.
This reimagining hopes to expand this connotation for the south entrance into the city.
These improvements could make this part of town more walkable, encourage mixed-use development, and foster a better connection between neighborhoods to downtown.
What’s Next?
The council’s work-study session will allow council members to review the plan in detail and hear from city staff as well as public comment. If approved, the design phase will likely kick off this fall with public engagement opportunities along the way.
For residents who drive, bike, or walk these corridors daily, the next few months could shape how South Washington and Michigan Avenues look and function for decades to come.
Take a look at the plan in its entirety on the City of Holland website.
Sierra Ozolins is a West Michigan native, currently a student at Hope College. As an athlete, she is passionate about fitness—from running to weightlifting. With a interest for politics and lifestyle, she is intrigued how local culture, community, and everyday events shape the world around her—often with an iced coffee in hand and her dog by her side.
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