QR Code Signs Help North Bay Residents Stay Informed About the Development of the New 24/7 Shelter
North Bay is gradually introducing a new way of communicating with residents — informational signs with QR codes placed on the fence near the Northern Pines housing complex. At first glance, this may seem like a simple element of urban infrastructure, but in reality these signs play an important role in maintaining open communication between municipal services and local residents. Now anyone can access up-to-date and reliable information about the project of the new 24/7 integrated shelter in just a few seconds.
How the QR Code on the Sign Works
Scanning the QR code leads directly to a dedicated page on the DNSSAB website. This is not an advertisement and not a formal bulletin — the page is designed specifically so every resident can quickly understand what is happening at the site and what stage the project is in. The page includes:
• current updates on the search for a permanent 24/7 integrated shelter;
• a description of Northern Pines’ role within the city’s support system;
• updates on the low-barrier shelter that operates 24/7 and will continue to do so until April 30, 2026;
• an explanation of how this temporary solution fits into the city’s long-term infrastructure plans.
Thus, the QR sign acts as an instant access point to the most important verified information. Officials emphasize that this is part of their commitment to transparency and maintaining communication with residents without the need for endless meetings and briefings.
Why This Matters for the City Right Now
Northern Pines currently serves as a 24/7 refuge for people in vulnerable situations. But even with this facility in place, the city is continuing its work on a larger and more comprehensive solution. DNSSAB, the North Bay Crisis Centre and the municipal administration are jointly developing a permanent integrated support center that will provide long-term, systematic assistance.
This includes:
• expanding available social services;
• improving conditions for people who require shelter;
• building sustainable support infrastructure;
• increasing access to help for everyone who needs it.
Given these ongoing efforts, community interest is completely natural: residents want to know what is happening, how the project is progressing, and what decisions are being made. QR signs allow this demand for information to be satisfied immediately, without delays or bureaucracy.
QR Codes as a Part of Urban Communication
Today QR codes are everywhere — on restaurant menus, product packaging, advertising and more. But in the case of Northern Pines, they are used not for clicks or promotion but for a social purpose.
The QR signs near the complex serve several key functions:
• provide 24/7 access to important information;
• reduce the distance between residents and municipal services;
• create an atmosphere of transparency and trust;
• help decrease misinformation and misunderstandings;
• keep people informed without requiring their participation in official meetings.
In practice, this is a small but meaningful tool that makes city communication more modern, honest and convenient. It shows that the approach to residents is becoming more respectful — they no longer need to search for information elsewhere; it is available exactly where questions arise: at the site itself.
A Small Solution With a Big Impact
The QR code on the sign is not just a technological update. It is a step toward open dialogue between the administration and residents. It demonstrates that information is not being hidden or complicated — instead, it is being made closer, clearer and more accessible.
Such signs create the feeling that everything happening in the area is a shared story — one that every resident can follow, understand and see how the city is taking important steps to strengthen its social support system. In this sense, such a QR-based digital card also plays an essential social role.