West Side

Since the beginning, Bay City Bridge Partners has pledged to be an active member of the community.

Navigating Bay City’s toll bridges: Q&A with Kevin Bischel

Bay City is now home to two toll bridges. While that has many drivers planning ways to get around town without paying the tolls, General Manager Kevin Bischel says the bridges are helping our economy and community.  

Bangor Township Superintendent Matt Schmidt wins state honors for growth, closing achievement gaps

As 2024 winds down, Route Bay City asked leaders from local schools to answer questions about recent progress and what's next. This week, we feature Matt Schmidt, Superintendent of Bangor Township Schools.  

Horse-drawn carriage rides are offered for a few hours on Sundays between now and Christmas.
Local light shows and events keep December in Bay County merry and bright

From brilliant light shows and awe-inspiring music to sales and visits with Santa, there’s something for everyone to enjoy this month in the Great Lakes Bay Region.  

A sculpture, made up of a split globe connected by a large metal arch, symbolizes the relationship between Bay City and its sister city Ansbach, Germany. The sculpture in Uptown Bay City was dedicated in 2022.
Sister City Project bridges cultures across the Atlantic Ocean

Students from both Bay City and Germany immersed themselves in a foreign culture and came away with new perspectives. Educators in each community hope the exchange program grows in the coming years.  

Eastern High School focuses on helping students succeed after they've hit academic roadblocks at traditional high schools.
Eastern High School challenges the alternative school stereotypes

Eastern High School, an alternative high school within Bay City Public Schools, offers a unique educational experience for students who have fallen behind academically.

Pitch Perfect: Local entrepreneurs pitch their dreams and win cash for their businesses

Local entrepreneurs compete for more than $11,000 in cash prizes during the second annual Business by the Bay pitch competition.  

Community service and leadership are key components of the Kantzler Fellowship at Saginaw Valley State University. (Photo courtesy of SVSU)
Class in session: Attracting, supporting, and retaining educators

Being a teacher is a tough job, but statewide grants, funding, student loan repayment programs, and other incentives and resources aim to make the career more appealing. Local school districts, universities and colleges are also partnering together to make transitioning from one classroom to the next a bit more doable.

Jim Reha, at left, and Keith Markstrom, at right, explain how the Veterans Workshop and Learning Center is trying to meet the needs of veterans.
Veterans finding community and help at a Downtown Bay City workshop and learning center

The Veterans Workshop & Learning Center in Downtown Bay City is making an impact on the lives of those who served our country. The center offers classes, speakers, mental wellness support, and social opportunities.

Before- and after-school care programs give parents peace of mind while providing kids with nutritious snacks, homework help, and time for play. The United Way of Bay County helps fund two Bay County programs.
Before- and after-school programs nurture mental and physical development

Before- and after-school care programs provide kids with a safe environment alongside homework help and fun activities. 

A fitness obstacle course was added to Maplewood Park on Bay City's East Side.
Maplewood Park revitalization creates a community hub for a Downtown Bay City neighborhood

The Maplewood Park Sports Complex in Bay City is undergoing a major transformation, evolving into a vibrant community hub that fosters neighborhood revitalization and provide new opportunities for underserved residents.

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