While the past year in the development of the GoSite has been filled with community meetings, extensive research, surveys, advisory meetings, fundraising and design planning, the organizers think there’s one more key ingredient that needs to happen before finalizing the launch schedule: a Pop Up!
The GoSite Pop Up will occupy the space in the northwest corner of the Grand Rapids Art Museum (GRAM), the area planned for restructuring prior to the full GoSite launch. Introductory hours are Thursdays and Fridays, 10 a.m. to 9 p.m., and Saturdays 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. from July 31 through mid-September.
The Pop Up is a fun, interactive phase in the planning process, where visitors can stop in and learn more about the concept of this 21st century information center coming soon to downtown. A certified tourism ambassador (CTA) will be on hand to help explore the Pop Up features and answer questions about the GoSite concept.
There will be an informational wall display where guests can try out some of the digital and social media features planned for the GoSite, including a personalized tour itinerary and video hosts providing weekly tips and best bets. There will also be a condensed version of the GR Riddle, a game of wit and skill that tests player’s knowledge of Grand Rapids landmarks and iconic places in the city – with hints along the way, and prizes of course!
The Pop Up will provide opportunities for feedback and idea sharing from visitors to the site, and one of the most important areas where input is requested is in building the “Pillars of the Community” feature. This is a story that needs many voices before final design of the display: what is our history, who are the early influencers, what were and are the major industries, what is the character and unique attributes of the citizens, what is the vision for the future and who are the next generation of influencers moving us ahead? The many ideas from the community will be instrumental in the development of this project.
Overall, the Pop Up is a great chance for the public to get to know the GoSite better, and for the GoSite to become better because of the public input. Be sure to stop in, explore the site and add your voice to the design.
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