Community Development

A wide variety of stakeholders have come together to collaborate on a strategic plan to develop the Chippewa River Water Trail. Photo Courtesy of the Chippewa Nature Center.

Stakeholders across Mid-Michigan collaborate on strategic plan to develop Chippewa River Water Trail

A wide variety of stakeholders have come together to collaborate on a strategic plan to develop the Chippewa River Water Trail – a project that many hope will promote regional and statewide awareness of the opportunities the river has to offer, as well as inspire enhanced sustainability efforts along the river corridor.

Latest in Community Development
The restoration of this beautiful home on Valley Drive is underway.
Seven months later, flood-damaged home on historic Midland street getting new life

Like many homes that endured extensive damage in the May disaster, a home on Midland’s Valley Drive is undergoing renovations. What’s unique is the home’s ownership has changed hands.

Madison Elliot dances to “Hallelujah,” by Leonard Cohen, while Joshua James Sharrard sings and plays piano.
The Great Lakes Bay Region releases its first-ever holiday album

Upon realizing the Great Lakes Bay region didn’t have its own holiday video album, Avram Golden set out to create one — featuring local talent, local venues, and local nonprofits. “It truly is like the holiday spirit of generosity and kindness, and sharing the gifts that you have with others,” says Samantha McKenzie of Hidden Harvest.

A Bay City businessman bought $10,000 worth of groceries for 250 people at City Market this week.
Bay City businessman gives away thousands of dollars in groceries to those in need

A Bay City businessman bought $10,000 worth of groceries for 250 people at City Market this week. It marks the second time this month he's reached out to help people facing financial hardships during the pandemic.

Midland’s generosity and ability to embrace change have bolstered the Pantry Network’s mission throughout the region.
Midland County Emergency Food Pantry Network partners with community to help families

Working closely with the Midland community has enabled the Midland County Emergency Food Pantry Network to address evolving local needs and maneuver the ups and downs of a turbulent year.

Mike and Pam Loomis say they see great things in Bay City's future. His sons – from left, Jared, Justin, and Brandon – do too, so they're choosing to return to Bay City to begin their careers. 
Blog: Bay City is buckling down and doing the creative work to rise after the COVID-19 pandemic ends

Mike Loomis, CEO of MDL Companies, says the real estate sales and investment markets in Bay City are growing even as the pandemic changes the way people live and work.  

Erica Armstrong hosts video answering voters' frequently asked questions.
Get out and vote! Midland City Clerk answers FAQs

Erica Armstrong, City of Midland’s City Clerk, answers voters’ frequently asked questions.

City of Midland's Recreation Manager Marcie Post and Mayor Maureen Donker at last week's groundbreaking of Miracle Field.
Play ball! Miracle Field in Midland’s Central Park to offer accessible, inclusive recreation space

“When you talk about the Miracle Field and you talk about Midland being a baseball town, it just makes logical sense that we would want everybody to be able to play baseball,” says Karen Murphy, director of public services for the City of Midland.

Child-care expenses often are out of reach for families earning less than $76,000 in Bay County.
United Way of Bay County taking applications for leadership position

The United Way of Bay County is looking for its next leader. The goal is to choose a new CEO by Dec. 1.  

‘By the community, for the community’: How organizations stepped up to revitalize Grove Park

This summer, Grove Park in Midtown gained new playground equipment, an upgraded outdoor basketball court, small gazebo, fencing, and landscaping. Future upgrades will include restroom facilities, additional parking, paved pathways, and a larger gazebo.

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