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WALKER, Mich. -- Plans to open a Raising Cane's restaurant in Walker are advancing, as the Walker Planning Commission approved a special land use request for the site last week. The new location will be situated at 3179 Alpine Avenue, where a vacant TGI Friday's currently stands. Construction is expected to begin by July 2026, though it could start earlier in the spring.
The new 3,100-square-foot Raising Cane's will feature a double drive-thru, indoor dining, and outdoor patio seating. The site will be operated by Raising Cane's but owned by Geenan Dekock Properties, LLC. The restaurant chain is known for its chicken fingers, crinkle-cut fries, Texas toast, and signature Cane's Sauce.
Raising Cane's has been expanding rapidly in Michigan, with the first Grand Rapids-area location opening in Kentwood on November 18. The Kentwood opening drew significant attention, with more than 300 people lining up for the event. WOODTV reports that the chain plans to open additional locations in Portage, Mount Pleasant, and Grandville as part of its growth strategy in West Michigan.
Alex VanLuyn, area leader of restaurants for West Michigan, expressed excitement about the expansion, stating, "We want a ton of growth over here. We know it’s a robust market. Grand Rapids is the second biggest city in Michigan." The new Walker location is expected to cater to the high demand for Raising Cane's offerings in the area.