Cobourg, Port Hope receive $1.7 million for transit upgrades, new vehicles. By 93.3 myFM News/Classic Rock staff Jun 15, 2026 | 8:00 AM Transit riders in Cobourg and Port Hope will benefit from more than $1.7 million in combined federal, provincial and municipal investments aimed at improving local transportation services. The funding announcement was made Thursday by federal, provincial and municipal officials as part of the Investing in Canada Infrastructure Program. In Cobourg, nearly $1.2 million is being invested in public transit improvements. The funding will support the purchase of three new gasoline-powered buses equipped with contactless payment technology, with the first vehicle already in service. The Cobourg project also includes the construction of a transit operations office and accessibility upgrades at 10 bus stops throughout the community. Funding for the Cobourg initiative includes approximately $468,000 from the federal government, $390,000 from Ontario and just over $312,000 from the Town of Cobourg. In Port Hope, more than $560,000 has been invested to replace three conventional transit vehicles that had reached the end of their service life. The Port Hope project received $225,000 in federal funding, approximately $187,000 from the province and just over $150,000 from the municipality. Officials say the investments will improve reliability, accessibility and the overall rider experience while helping residents access jobs, education, healthcare and other services. Local leaders noted that public transit is particularly important in smaller communities where residents may rely on the service for daily transportation needs. The announcement comes as both municipalities continue to expand and modernize their transit systems in response to population growth and evolving transportation demands. In addition to the infrastructure funding, Port Hope and Cobourg also received support through Ontario's Gas Tax program, which helps municipalities fund transit operations and capital projects. The province says it is investing nearly $70 billion in public transit projects across Ontario. (Written by: Joseph Goden)

Municipality of Port Hope receives $158,200 from Jays Care Foundation. At a Blue Jays watch party yesterday, Port Hope baseball fans, young athletes and community members received exciting news: the Municipality of Port Hope has been selected as a recipient of the 2026 Jays Care Foundation's Field of Dreams grant, made possible by TD. The grant funding, a generous $158,200, will support the much-needed refurbishment of the Welcome Park baseball diamond. "This is an incredible moment for Port Hope and our baseball community," notes Mayor Olena Hankivsky. "This investment from Jays Care Foundation will transform Welcome Park into a more inclusive, accessible space where players of all ages and abilities can participate and thrive. On behalf of Council and the entire community, I want to extend our sincere thanks to Jays Care Foundation and TD for their generosity, and to our local partners who helped bring this vision forward." Thanks to the generosity of Jays Care Foundation, this funding will support improvements that enhance accessibility, comfort, and overall experience for both local players and visiting teams. Planned improvements include a refurbished infield with an accessible turf surface, new accessible dugouts, refreshed bleachers and new fencing. The exciting announcement was revealed during a community watch party on Sunday, June 7, where the Jack Burger Sports Complex was buzzing with its enthusiastic baseball community. Thank you to all who came out to share their community spirit as Port Hope was recognized live on national television as one of this year's Field of Dreams grant recipients. A special thank you to Port Hope Challenger Baseball for championing this idea and making this dream a reality. Appreciation is also extended to the Northumberland Baseball Association for their support throughout the application process. Construction at Welcome Park is set to begin later this year, with the field reopening in time for the 2027 baseball season.

Port Hope honours community leaders at Civic Awards, tribute paid to fallen OPP officer. By 93.3 myFM News/Classic Rock staff May 1, 2026 | 10:53 AM The Municipality of Port Hope celebrated outstanding community members at its annual Civic Awards ceremony, held before a full house at the Capitol Theatre. The evening opened with a tribute from Mayor Olena Hankivsky to OPP Sergeant Brandon Malcolm, who died in the line of duty earlier this week. A moment of silence was observed in his honour before the ceremony continued. Hosted by Classic Rock 107.9's Mornings with York host York Bell Smith, the event recognized individuals and groups whose service and dedication have made a lasting impact in the community. Smith also paid tribute to former councillor, deputy mayor, and Outstanding Citizen award recipient Jeff Lees by dedicating the Community Service Awards category to his memory. Lees, remembered for his contributions to the community, was also honoured in a personal way as Smith wore a Boston Bruins cap during the presentation, reflecting Lees' passion for the team. Awards were presented in eight categories, celebrating achievements in areas including agriculture, arts and culture, athletics, environment, heritage, philanthropy, and community service. This year's top honours saw Owen Price named Outstanding Youth, while Peter Abrams received the Outstanding Citizen Award. The ceremony also featured performances from local talent, including musicians and youth performers, highlighting the depth of artistic talent within the community. Following the awards, attendees gathered in the theatre lobby for a reception featuring refreshments from a range of local businesses. Municipal officials say the Civic Awards program continues to play an important role in recognizing the people who help make Port Hope a welcoming and vibrant community. (Written by: Joseph Goden)