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Bay Future News & Extra Updates

Michigan Business Network: Bau Future

Explore 4.51 acres of commercially zoned property along the high-visibility Center Avenue/M-25 corridor in Essexville. The site offers access to water, sewer, electric and gas utilities and is located approximately five miles from I-75 and US-10, four miles from Port Fisher and 17 miles from MBS International Airport. This property presents a strong opportunity for commercial development in a well-connected location.

Interested in learning more about this development opportunity? Contact us for additional property details and site information.

View Property Listing

Explore Funding Options for Your Next Stage of Growth

For farmers, food producers and entrepreneurs, the right funding can help turn plans for growth into action.

This upcoming SBA session will connect attendees with funding expertise and resources designed specifically for agriculture and food-related businesses. Participants can learn more about financing options, what to expect during the investment process and resources that can support future growth.

If you are planning what comes next for your business, this is a great opportunity to explore the options available to you.

Register

Community Partnership Grant Applications Open

The Bay Area Community Foundation is accepting applications for its 2026 Community Partnership Grants. Nonprofit organizations serving Bay and Arenac counties may apply for funding to support projects in the arts, education, environment, human services, recreation and other community initiatives. Applications are due by 1:59 p.m. on Monday, September 14. Funding decisions are expected in mid-May.

View Grant Information

Housing Supply Rate Buydown Program

Banks and credit unions can apply for funding through the Housing Supply Rate Buydown Advance, allowing them to offer reduced-interest construction, bridge and permanent loans for qualifying housing developments. Applications are accepted on a first-come, first-served basis, with each participating lender eligible for up to $550,000. Because funding is expected to be fully subscribed quickly, developers are encouraged to contact their banking partners now to learn whether they plan to participate.

View Program Details

Gov. Whitmer Expands Brownfield

 Development Program

Governor Gretchen Whitmer has signed bipartisan legislation expanding Michigan’s transformational brownfield and commercial redevelopment programs. The changes are intended to make it easier for communities and businesses to rehabilitate vacant or blighted properties, support new housing and commercial development, attract private investment and create jobs. The legislation also extends key redevelopment incentives and adds new transparency and reporting requirements for approved projects.

Read the Full Press Release

Water Street Lofts Bringing New Life Downtown

Exciting progress is underway on the north end of Downtown Bay City as the Water Street Lofts project transforms a long-vacant property between First and Second streets.

The development will feature 89 market-rate apartments and first-floor commercial space, creating new opportunities for people to live, work and invest downtown. The project reflects The Times Properties’ continued commitment to revitalizing properties and supporting Bay City’s growth.

New Accessible Kayak Launch Opens in

Bangor Township

Bangor Charter Township recently celebrated the opening of a new universally accessible kayak launch and pavilion at Independence Boat Launch. The facility includes specialized transfer benches, stable launch platforms and accessible walkways designed to make launching a kayak safer and easier for people of all abilities. The project represents an important investment in expanding inclusive outdoor recreation opportunities throughout Bay County.

City of Bay City DDA Seeks Proposals for

Downtown Parking Study

The City of Bay City Downtown Development Authority is seeking proposals for a Comprehensive Downtown Parking Study and Electronic Parking System Assessment.

The selected firm will provide a data-driven evaluation of downtown parking conditions and recommend a long-term operational and technology strategy.

Proposals are due Wednesday, August 26, 2026 at 2:00 p.m. Proposals must be submitted both electronically through BidNet Direct and as a sealed paper copy delivered to the DDA Office, 101 1st Street, Bay City, MI.

Proposal documents, addenda, and electronic submissions will be managed through BidNet Direct. Vendors are responsible for registering at BidNetDirect.com and checking for any addenda issued prior to submission.

Learn More

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