NORTH BAY — North Bay’s transit system is set for a major upgrade following a combined investment of more than $20.6 million from the federal, provincial and municipal governments.
The funding will go toward replacing eight conventional buses in the North Bay Transit fleet with hybrid models, upgrading a transit terminal and the fare collection system, and making improvements to sidewalks and stormwater infrastructure.
The investment was announced Monday by federal MP Pauline Rochefort, provincial MPP Vic Fedeli and Mayor Peter Chirico. Rochefort said the upgrades will make transit safer and easier to use while cutting greenhouse gas emissions.
Through the Public Transit Infrastructure Stream of the Investing in Canada Infrastructure Program, Ottawa is contributing $8.36 million, Ontario is providing $6.89 million and the city is putting in $5.43 million.
Fedeli said the project will help expand and modernize local transit while supporting economic growth and job creation.
The city says the hybrid buses will lower operating emissions and improve fuel efficiency, while the infrastructure upgrades will improve accessibility and passenger experience.