Abandoned Grand Rapids Commercial Property Given New Purpose
R&R Mechanical Services relocates, stimulating business growth and local economy
GRAND RAPIDS, Mich. (May 16, 2019) – R&R Mechanical Services, in partnership with Rockford Construction and Amplify GR, announced its relocation to the newly renovated 8,000 square foot property at 433 Crofton in Grand Rapids’ Cottage Grove neighborhood. The refurbished building, which sat vacant for approximately five years prior to being purchased by Amplify GR in 2017, will now serve as headquarters for R&R Mechanical Services and its 32 employees.
“We grew up, played and went to school in this community,” said Ruben Ramos, owner of R&R Mechanical Services. “When we outgrew our previous space a few blocks away, it was vital to us that we remain in the same neighborhood and continue to serve the residents and businesses that have supported us for the last 10 years. We are grateful for the opportunity to work alongside Rockford Construction and Amplify GR, as both organizations share our values and dedication to invest in Cottage Grove and surrounding areas.”
R&R Mechanical, a full-service HVAC company, intends to add more members to its growing team, with a sincere commitment and purpose to hiring local talent from within the community.
“We have found tremendous talent in our own backyard,” said Ramos. “We are passionate about giving back in various ways but most importantly by providing employment opportunities for all and offering access to careers through training and certifications for skilled trades.”
The company is eager to realize its full potential through streamlined, single-site operations and enough facility space for workforce development and training opportunities for employees and community members. The renovation project, led by Rockford Construction, took eight months and a $700,000 investment by R&R Mechanical, and brought a substantial amount of work to the neighborhood, much of which was completed by local, minority-owned enterprises.
“We have worked with R&R Mechanical for several years and knew this project would be a great fit for collaboration,” said Brad Mathis, project executive for Rockford Construction. “This building was restored very intentionally, from the contractors hired to work on the project to its intended use.”
“R&R Mechanical is a great example of the type of community-centric businesses we hope to draw to the Boston Square and Cottage Grove neighborhoods,” said Jon Ippel, executive director for Amplify GR. “As we strive to further invigorate abandoned buildings in Cottage Grove, we are committed to working with businesses that support the community’s vision to widen pathways for more residents. We are thankful for R&R’s commitment to local hiring and job training.”
R&R Mechanical has been an active participant in the communities it serves since its inception, with executives and employees serving as part of the Hispanic Chamber of Commerce, the Madison Square Business Association and the Mexican Heritage Association, among other organizations.
To learn more about R&R Mechanical, visit www.rrmechanicalsvs.com. For more information about Amplify GR and Rockford Construction, visit www.amplifygr.org and www.rockfordconstruction.com.
About R&R Mechanical
At R&R Mechanical Services we are the best in skill, attitude, and training. With over 45 years of combined experience and proudly service the Grand Rapids, MI community is a testament to our commitment to our customers. The relationships we have formed over the years with manufacturers means we can give you the highest quality equipment and the most affordable prices. Give us a call at 616-452-6888 today. We promise you will be happy with your decision.
About Amplify GR
Amplify GR seeks to widen pathways so that more residents can participate and benefit from neighborhood growth in the Boston Square, Cottage Grove and the surrounding areas. Through partnerships with residents, businesses, community organizations and funders, Amplify GR works in four areas of impact: jobs and entrepreneurship, housing, education and community wellbeing.
About Rockford Construction
Established in 1987, Rockford Construction (Rockford) is a nationally-recognized construction, real estate development, and property management, provider. Rockford is licensed in 45 states and ranked by Engineering News-Record as one of the top 200 contractors in the nation. With regional offices in the Midwest and Southeast, Rockford has built projects totaling more than $4.8 billion of various size and scope in more than 800 cities across the country. More information at rockfordconstruction.com
CONTACT:
Elise Pelletier
epelletier@lambert.com
616-233-0500