Two municipal organizations in the province are joining forces to become one.

The Cities of New Brunswick Association (CNBA) is merging with the Union of Municipalities of New Brunswick (UMNB).

Tantramar Mayor Andrew Black, president of UMNB, said the merger will allow them to advocate more effectively on critical issues.

“Our strength as an association lies in the unified voice of our membership,” Black said in a news release this week.

Up until now, UMNB represented more than 50 local governments in New Brunswick including six of the province’s eight cities.

An Urban Municipal Caucus will be created to provide a continued dedicated forum for city and regional hub issues.

Miramichi Mayor Adam Lordon, president of CNBA, said the merger presents a unique opportunity for members of both associations.

“Joining forces with UMNB under the Urban Municipal Caucus enhances everyone’s capacity for collaboration and strengthens our joint collective impact on provincial matters,” Lordon said in the release.

The transition will take place over the coming weeks as the boards and staff continue to work through and finalize details.