As of today, the Para Bus will no longer be under contract to be operated by the Physically Handicapped Adults’ Rehabilitation Association (PHARA).
In a release, the City of North Bay says “despite the change in service provider, the City will continue to support the delivery of the Para Bus during the transition to a new service provider which is anticipated to be in place in the near future.”
Councillor Mark King says a request for proposal has been issued in the City of North Bay’s search for a new operator of its Para Bus service.
King, also chair of the community services committee that the Para Bus falls under, adds that North Bay’s Para Bus not only will continue, it must continue. The City is bound by provincial legislation to offer equal services for transit users with disabilities.
PHARA announced it would terminate its contract with the City of North Bay in April, bringing to an end the agreement in which PHARA employees operated the accessible bus service within North Bay. The City owns, funds, and maintains the Para Buses.
The City of North Bay “thanks PHARA for their past support of the service and continued support through the transition.”
The Para Bus Service can be accessed by eligible riders by following the current practice for bookings.
Contact the Dispatch Office from Monday to Friday between 7:00am and 5:00pm by telephone (705) 476-5530 or fax (705) 476-5308.
Para Bus services hours of operation will continue with no changes and as listed below:
- Monday to Friday: 7:30am – 11:00pm
- Saturday: 9:00am – 11:00pm
- Sunday: 9:30am – 6:00pm
For more information and details about the North Bay Para Bus Service please visit the City’s website.
