GRAND RAPIDS, Mich. (WOOD) — Grand Rapids Mayor Rosalynn Bliss delivered her annual State of the City address Tuesday evening.

Her eighth State of the City, the invitation-only event was held at Studio D2D Event Center.

During her speech, Bliss talked about the local economy, saying dozens of local businesses have opened over the past year and the regional industrial economy is expected to “grow twice as fast as the U.S. economy.”

Bliss talked about policing changes in the city, thanking Grand Rapids Police Department Chief Eric Winstrom for his work.

“It was also almost a year ago that Patrick Lyoya was tragically killed,” Bliss said. “A tragedy that has had a profound impact on our community. And one that has amplified our need for meaningful change. My heart continues to go out to the Lyoya family as they grieve the loss of their loved one.”

The mayor also talked about what she says is a housing crisis in the city, saying the city is working to bring more housing for residents. Bliss said Grand Rapids needs to build 14,000 homes by 2027.

“We have a great deal of work to do. And we must proceed with a great sense of urgency,” she said.

She also promised to continue work on revitalizing the Grand River, even after state regulators rejected a plan to restore the rapids.

“I look forward to continuing our city building work together over the next year and I am incredibly grateful for all of your partnership and support,” she said.

Click here to read her full speech.

— News 8’s Rachel Van Gilder contributed to this report.