Bay City is on its way to receive a first-of-its-kind public safety division facility.
The City of Bay City and the Bay City Community Development Corporation (BCCDC) teamed up to fund the move that will house the city’s police department, dispatch, and municipal court and breathe new life into the long empty old K-mart building at 3701 Ave F.
The city and corporation purchased the former K-mart building for $1.75 million, less than its appraisal value, and the deal is set to close around June 1, according to Bay City Interim City Manager Scotty Jones.
BCCDC agreed to contribute $1 million towards the building’s purchase price.
Jones said the city hopes the soon-to-be renovated building will house the public safety offices within two years.
“Determining the site location was a city council goal in this year’s strategic plan and it definitely poises us for future growth,” she said.
“This has been a long-time goal for Bay City Police,” said Chief Christella Rodriguez, who has been instrumental in working alongside with on this project.
“I want to thank the BCCDC for partnering with the city for this endeavor.”
BCCDC Board President Alisha Cornett said the corporation has long pursued increasing economic development on the south side of Bay City.
“With the remodel of this highway frontage building we will increase public safety awareness and help spur further development in the area,” she said.
“Ensuring we balance community and economic development in Bay City is pivotal to a well-rounded city that serves all of its citizens,” said BCCDC Executive Director Jessica Russell.
“The BCCDC is confident this revitalization will lead to further development that all citizens will be proud of.
“We appreciate the opportunity to partner with the city and we push to help shape our community into a place future generations will want to return to.”
