Planning Commission Approves “The Ballroom at McKay”

McKay Tower’s former 2nd floor bank to be state-of-the-art banquet space

The City of Grand Rapids Planning Commission today approved a Special Land Use permit for the owners of McKay Tower to renovate the building’s second floor into a public banquet space called “The Ballroom at McKay”.

The proposed space, which is the former banking lobby on the second floor of McKay Tower, is intended to be used for special events such as wedding receptions, business meetings, holiday parties and banquets.  The space, which intends to offer alcohol service, will accommodate approximately 200 guests.

Owners of the building intend to begin renovations immediately and hope to have the space open for business by spring 2013.  The project will cost approximately $800,000.

Craig Architects of Grand Rapids is the project architect. A general contractor has not yet been selected.

Building owners intend to retain the stately beaux-arts interior with a minimum of technical interference.  New toilets for men and women will be constructed, as will a commercial kitchen for catering.

“McKay Tower is a centerpiece of downtown Grand Rapids, so it’s only fitting that there be a public space for everyone to enjoy,” said Chaunda Derks, Director of Operations for Steadfast Property Holdings, the company that owns the building.  “We hope that this project is viewed as a welcome addition to the City in that a vacant grand space will be returned to use for the enjoyment of the public.”

Individuals and organizations interested in learning more about renting the space can contact Derks at (616) 419-5442.  A website for the banquet space is in development.

This investment by Steadfast is one of several renovations to the historic building.  Façade improvements are currently undergoing, and changes to the building’s upper level residential areas are being considered.  More information on the building will be made public in 2013.

McKay Tower ballroom takes step toward spring completion

Steadfast Property Holdings has received approval from the Grand Rapids Planning Commission to convert the former banking lobby on McKay Tower’s second floor into a ballroom.

The $800,000 renovation project would create a public banquet space that could be used for business meetings, wedding receptions, holiday parties and other gatherings for up to 250 people.

Steadfast Property Holdings, which owns the 16-story building, also plans to apply for permits to serve liquor in “The Ballroom at McKay Tower,” if city commissioners approve its project on Nov. 27.

“McKay Tower is a centerpiece of downtown Grand Rapids, so it’s only fitting that the building offers a centerpiece space for everyone to enjoy,” said Chaundra Derks, operations director for Steadfast, in a statement.

“We hope that this project is viewed as a welcome addition to the city in that a vacant grand space will be returned to use for the enjoyment of the public,” she added.

Read More >>