Outdoor Discovery Center reports buildout of nature‑based childcare using ARPA funds; Gentex site slated to open fall 2025

The Outdoor Discovery Center (ODC Network) presented a progress report on a county‑funded project to expand child care capacity across Ottawa County. ODC said it has expended approximately $6 million of a $7.5 million ARPA allocation and has licensed over 415 new child‑care slots so far.

ODC said its strategy mixes new center construction, renovating existing spaces, and supporting home‑based providers; its programming is nature‑based and targets children from infancy through pre‑K (0–5). The organization said it has leveraged county funding with about $18 million of additional investment from private donors, foundations and corporate partners. ODC said it has operated programs since February and served more than 500 children so far.

ODC said the Gentex site — a large employer partnership — is expected to open in the fall of 2025 and will include expanded hours to serve shift workers. ODC also said a proposed Grand Haven solution is under discussion with the Grand Haven school district; the district’s recent board action signaled movement toward an MOU that could accelerate available slots in Grand Haven.

Commissioners asked about affordability for Gentex line workers and ODC said sliding‑scale options exist for families who provide income documentation and that the organization is pursuing additional grant and employer match funding, including state programs designed to share child‑care costs among employers, families and the state.

ODC invited commissioners to a Sept. 9 opening event at the Gentex site and said it will provide further updates on planned Hudsonville and Grand Haven locations.