Date of Defense

4-21-2026

Date of Graduation

5-2026

Department

Civil and Construction Engineering

First Advisor

Yufeng Hu

Second Advisor

Chad Van Soelen

Abstract

The Butterworth Street Reconstruction Project is a comprehensive urban infrastructure improvement project located in Grand Rapids, extending from Marion Avenue to Front Avenue along a critical multimodal corridor within the city. The purpose of the project is to address deteriorated pavement conditions, aging underground utilities, inadequate drainage systems, limited multimodal accommodations, and safety concerns for roadway users. The corridor currently serves residential neighborhoods, local businesses, transit users, cyclists, and pedestrians, while also functioning as an important connection through the west side of Grand Rapids. Guided by the Butterworth Area Specific Plan and the City of Grand Rapids Vital Streets framework, the project emphasizes safety, accessibility, sustainability, and long-term infrastructure resilience while remaining within the existing right-of-way.

The project includes full roadway reconstruction, replacement of aging watermain infrastructure and lead service lines, storm sewer upgrades, ADA-compliant sidewalks and curb ramps, raised concrete bicycle lanes, improved pedestrian crossings, upgraded transit accommodations, and enhanced streetscape features. Existing conditions were evaluated through site reconnaissance, review of historical as-built plans, GIS utility information, and traffic data collection. Traffic operations and future roadway performance were analyzed using PTV Vistro software to evaluate existing and projected conditions at key intersections along the corridor. The analysis confirmed that the proposed roadway design maintains acceptable levels of service through the 2045 design year while continuing to accommodate commercial vehicles, public transit, bicyclists, and pedestrians.

Environmental considerations played a significant role in the project development process. Environmental reviews included NEPA clearance, contamination assessments, threatened and endangered species evaluations, Section 106 cultural resource review, floodplain analysis, and stormwater management planning. Green infrastructure strategies and stormwater improvements were incorporated to address existing drainage deficiencies and improve water quality within the corridor while complying with applicable Michigan Department of Transportation and environmental regulations.

Two design alternatives featuring raised bicycle lanes were evaluated using criteria including safety, constructability, sustainability, longevity, user experience, and cost. The preferred alternative incorporated raised concrete bicycle lanes due to their superior long-term durability, reduced maintenance requirements, and improved safety and comfort for cyclists. Construction staging and maintenance of traffic plans were also developed to minimize disruptions to residents, businesses, emergency services, transit operations, and railroad crossings during construction activities.

Overall, the Butterworth Street Reconstruction Project represents a multidisciplinary engineering effort integrating transportation, traffic, environmental, water resources, and construction engineering principles to create a safer, more connected, and sustainable urban corridor. The proposed improvements are expected to enhance mobility, support economic activity, improve infrastructure reliability, and contribute to the long-term growth and quality of life within the surrounding community.

Comments

Co-authored with:

Joshua Hill

Lia Goodell

Lorraine and Sons Consulting (LSC)

Access Setting

Honors Thesis-Restricted

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