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Bay City wins a $500,000 Bay City RAP Grant to build an inclusive playground at historic Carroll Park, transforming accessibility and community spaces in Michigan.
Major Michigan Grant Award Signals Bright Future for Carroll Park
BAY CITY, MICH. — The City of Bay City has landed a major financial boost with the award of a $500,000 Bay City RAP Grant from the Michigan Economic Development Corporation (MEDC). This significant investment will cover half of the projected $1 million cost to transform Carroll Park, the city’s oldest and most beloved public green space, into a fully accessible and inclusive playground.
The project, spearheaded by Bay City officials, marks a critical step in addressing inclusivity and access at Carroll Park, which has long served as a hub for families, school groups, and neighborhood events. “This investment helps us take a significant step forward in making Carroll Park more accessible and inclusive for everyone,” said City Manager Dana Muscott. “We are grateful to the MEDC for supporting our vision.”
Carroll Park’s Rich Legacy Meets a More Inclusive Future
Carroll Park, deeply rooted in the fabric of Bay City’s community life, is set to undergo upgrades that reflect a modern vision of public space. Planned improvements include the installation of an updated, accessible playground, surrounding infrastructure enhancements, and upgraded site access to accommodate all residents and visitors.
Importantly, the project will incorporate local voices. The Parks and Recreation Committee and the Citizens District Council will partner with city staff and community members to shape the playground’s design. This collaborative approach aims to ensure the project resonates with families and community groups who regularly use the park.
Michigan’s RAP Program Brings New Life to Public Spaces
The RAP program, administered by the MEDC, is designed to support local revitalization efforts across Michigan. According to the MEDC, these grants aim to boost public spaces, attract residents and visitors, and help communities thrive economically and socially. This round of grants reflects a statewide push to rejuvenate parks, downtowns, and gathering places—making Michigan a more attractive place to live and work.
For Bay City, securing RAP funding is not just a win for Carroll Park but also for the city’s broader development goals. The improvements are expected to strengthen Bay City’s reputation as a family-friendly destination and bolster civic pride.
Funding Mix: Public Support Meets State Investment
The $1 million project will be funded through a combination of the RAP grant and local resources. Bay City plans to draw on city funds and other available sources to cover the remaining $500,000. The city has not yet detailed the breakdown of additional funding, but officials emphasized the importance of leveraging state support to maximize local impact.
The project’s timeline will be shaped over the coming months, with opportunities for residents to weigh in on final designs. Construction is anticipated to begin later this year or early next, pending approvals.
Broader Trends in Michigan’s Public Space Investment
Bay City’s success comes amid a growing trend across Michigan to invest in placemaking and community assets. Other communities receiving RAP funds are undertaking projects ranging from downtown beautification to waterfront redevelopment. The RAP program has become a key lever in Michigan’s economic strategy, focusing not just on jobs and businesses but also on quality-of-life improvements that attract and retain residents.
To explore the full list of RAP grant recipients, visit the Governor’s announcement here.
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