About G2G Grand Rapids

On August 10, 2023, join us for the first-ever Grand Rapids Grey to Green Conference, hosted at Grand Valley State University - Seidman Building, where experts in green infrastructure, policymakers, and community leaders will come together to explore the latest trends and innovations in sustainable urban design. The plenary session on August 10 will run from 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM.

Don’t miss our keynote speaker Randy Hayman, CEO & Commissioner of the Philadelphia Water Department, who will be discussing the success of Philadelphia’s Green City Clean Waters program and how it could possibly be applied to other municipalities across the United States. By 2019, this program successfully greened 1,500 acres out of a projected 10,000 acres, reducing stormwater volume by over 260 million gallons.

As a growing city in the Great Lakes region, Grand Rapids faces unique challenges in managing its urban environment. From stormwater runoff to rising temperatures and air pollution, the impacts of climate change are being felt across the city. That's why green infrastructure has become such an important tool in Grand Rapids' efforts to build a sustainable and resilient city.

At the Grand Rapids Grey to Green Conference, you'll have the opportunity to hear from experts in the field, learn about the latest research, and connect with others who are passionate about building a greener, healthier city.

You can also join us on August 9, 2023, for a tour of the phenomenally sustainable John Ball Zoo, with a Reception at the Bissell TreeHouse featuring opening remarks from Grand Rapids Mayor Rosalynn Bliss! This will be a new level of networking, surrounded by the beauty of the John Ball Zoo and it’s friendly inhabitants.

Whether you're a building owner, a landscape architect, a city planner, or simply someone who cares about the future of our urban environment, this conference is not to be missed. Join us as we explore the role of green infrastructure in building a more sustainable and resilient city for all.

Click on the button below to access the Detailed Agenda!

Key Details

August 9 - Tours, Reception, and Living Architecture Performance Tool Ceremony
August 10 - Conference Programming & Networking at Grand Valley State University - Seidman Building
Grand Valley State University - Seidman Building
50 Front Ave SW, Grand Rapids, MI
Tours - $39 / $49 USD
Conference Programming - $125 USD / $150 USD
Networking Reception - $39 USD / $49 USD
Holiday Inn Grand Rapids Downtown
310 Pearl Street NW, Grand Rapids, MI 49504 United States
Sleep Inn & Suites
4284 29th Street, SE, Grand Rapids, MI, 49512, US
Join us at Founders Brewing on Thursday August 10th starting at 6:30 PM! This is an informal networking reception, first come first serve at the brewery.
Founders Brewing
235 Cesar E. Chavez Ave SW, Grand Rapids, MI 49503

Agenda At A Glance

Click for Detailed Agenda

LiveRoof/LiveWall Open House
Price: $29 USD
Time: 8:00 - 11:30 AM
Location: 17085 144th Ave, Nunica, MI
Note: This is the address to North Bank Trail, which is across the street from the gate into the property. Look for the Sign “Open House LiveRoof/LiveWall” on your right.
Gate Code: 8421#
Contact: Doni Burton - 616.422.0132
We invite you to join us at the LiveRoof/LiveWall Facility in Nunica! The day will be filled with tours of the facility, production area, and the facility’s own green roof on the production building! We will be discussing maintenance and green roof production with the LiveRoof/LiveWall experts! See the detailed agenda for the full schedule.

John Ball Zoo Tour, Living Architecture Performance Tool Award Ceremony, and Networking Reception
Price: $39 USD Conference Registrant / $49 USD Non-Conference Registrant
Location: John Ball Zoo (1300 Fulton St W, Grand Rapids, MI)
Time: 4:00 PM - 7:00 PM
Join us for an incredible tour of the innovative and uniquely sustainable John Ball Zoo! In 2021, John Ball Zoo was the first zoo in the world to be awarded the Sustainable SITES Initiative Certification. This year, the zoo will be awarded a Platinum Certification for the Living Architecture Performance Tool. This not only shows their dedication to stormwater management and sustainability initiatives, but to providing the animals on site with the best possible created habitat.
Conference Programming - Expert Sessions and Trade Show
Price: $125 USD Member / $150 USD Non-member
Location: Grand Valley State University - Seidman Building (Building 1063 Seidman Center 50 Front Street SW Grand Rapids, MI)
Time: 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM