T
he old Grand Rapids Amtrak station is up for sale after being listed on the market through DAR Commercial Real Estate. The property, owned by Jonathan Bryant, sits on a 0.6-acre plot at the corner of Market Avenue and Wealthy Street, just down the block from the Acrisure Amphitheater construction site. Bryant purchased the property in May 2021 for $350,000 and has listed it for $1.5 million.

    Bryant says he's received several inquiries about the property, but most potential buyers are interested in using it as parking for the amphitheater, which is set to open soon. However, they're hesitant to commit to a purchase without knowing how long it will take for the amphitheater to attract foot traffic.

    The property has potential for redevelopment into retail or restaurant space, according to Bryant. He initially considered turning it into a hot dog stand but decided against it after his daughter moved to California. A take-out restaurant could be a good fit given its proximity to the amphitheater and size of the property.

    Interest in the property picked up after the May groundbreaking for the 12,000-capacity amphitheater, but potential buyers have wanted to put the property under contract, which would give them time to finalize their plans. However, Bryant has been hesitant to agree to this arrangement.

    The old railroad depot was replaced by the Vernon J. Ehlers Amtrak Station in 2014. The property is located in a federal Opportunity Zone and is zoned for buildings up to 16 stories tall. According to listing agent Jon Geenen, the property has a lot of potential and will likely be purchased and developed soon.

    Bryant invested at least another $50,000 into the property after purchasing it from CSX Transportation in 2021. If he sells the property for $1.5 million, it would be a significant payday, but he notes that he's already paid taxes on the building since then.