Bay City’s daytime population has jumped from 49,000 to 82,000 in just seven years, driven by industrial growth and business-friendly planning. With only 17,561 full-time residents, the city now supports thousands more workers, visitors, and commuters each day. Six new subdivisions are underway, major employers like Roehm are expanding, and new businesses are filling out downtown. A $15 million aquatic center and active roadwork show Bay City’s push to support growth with better infrastructure, recreation, and long-term investment.