The provincial government this week announced the addition of high-speed internet to several remote and rural regions of B.C.
People in Fort St. James, Williams Prairie Meadow 1A, Cluculz Lake, Burns Lake, and Sheridan Lake are gaining new infrastructure expanding access to high-speed internet services, the Province revealed.
“People in remote and rural areas need the same high-speed internet access as people do in urban centres,” says George Chow, Minister of Citizens’ Services.
The move is part of a broader mandate issued by the government to have all British Columbians plugged-in.
“We are committed to our goal of connecting every home by 2027 so everyone can take advantage of better access to online education, employment, business opportunities and services unlocked by internet connectivity,” Chow affirmed.
The Province is investing millions of dollars through the Connecting British Columbia program, administered by Northern Development Initiative Trust, as is the Government of Canada through its Universal Broadband Fund.
In addition, internet service provider CityWest will contribute $3 million alongside $700,000 from the Regional District of Bulkley-Nechako, while Telus Communications has committed $800,000 toward connectivity projects.
“We are excited to have high-speed internet service extend throughout the region,” stated Clint Lambert, Regional District of Bulkley-Nechako director for Electoral Area E (Francois/Ootsa Lake Rural). “We are very pleased to see progress being made and new service being built to serve rural populations.”
More than 1,700 households in total will get new connectivity network infrastructure.
“Increased reliable and resilient access to high-speed internet improves education, economic opportunities and community cohesion in our regional area,” believes Martin Elphee, mayor of Fort St. James. “It is vital to ensure that everyone, whether urban or rural, have equal, reliable and resilient connection opportunities.”
In 2022, B.C. and Canada announced an agreement to invest up to $830 million to support to expansion of high-speed internet services to all households in B.C. The Province’s investment is part of StrongerBC: Good Lives in Strong Communities, the government’s vision that outlines investments to help build a brighter future for rural communities.
“Connectivity is key to fostering growth and success in all communities,” stated Roly Russell, Parliamentary Secretary for Rural Development. “By enabling better, faster access to online opportunities and services, it empowers people to thrive in the communities they call home.”
Photo by Vincent Guth on Unsplash
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