NORWICH – An opportunity to generate some revenue for Chenango County presented itself this month as First Transit’s Jeff Thornton suggested soliciting companies to advertise on the new buses that will be purchased with federal stimulus funds.

Chenango County will apply for about $300,000 in federal stimulus to buy up to two buses, 27 radios and other technological equipment for its public transportation system. The American Recovery and Reinvestment Act funds were made available to the New York State Department of Transportation for infrastructure, “shovel ready” projects. The buses and equipment will become county property.

“The advertising would be based on our specifications, whatever we decide on. It would be an income-sharing opportunity with the county,” Thornton said. Thornton presented his idea to members of the Public Works Committee last week.

First Transit has already received inquiries from businesses interested in the advertising opportunity, he said.

Committee member James Bays, D-Smyrna, suggested using the advertising to promote local government-sponsored activities, such as public health clinics.

A motion was made and seconded to have the director explore how other counties cost-share with their public transit systems for advertising as well as the varieties of signs used.