Residents in Salmon Valley, Willow River and West Lake areas will have access to faster, more-reliable internet before the end of the year, thanks to a provincial grant.
On Thursday, the province announced that TELUS and Vincent Communications will receive a total of $3.6 million to upgrade internet service in 19 northern B.C. communities. The upgrade projects are expected to be complete by Oct. 31.
The provincial grants are being administered by the Northern Development Initiative Trust.
"Investments in connectivity infrastructure are one of the most effective steps we can take to drive economic growth in northern British Columbia," NDIT Joel McKay said in a press release. "Reliable internet access brings the world to the doorsteps of rural and Indigenous communities. The completion of these projects will instantly unlock new business opportunities and support the growth of numerous industries."
Telus will receive up to $1.9 million in grants toward the estimated $3.21 million cost of upgrading services for people in Willow River, Salmon Valley, West Lake, Rolla and Blue River.
"It's hard to imagine running a business today without high-speed internet, and yet that's exactly what many people in northern B.C. deal with every day. These investments will unlock new opportunities to do business, recruit talent and create jobs that support families," B.C. Citizens' Services Minister Lisa Beare said in a press release. "B.C.'s northern communities are essential to the province's economic future. Ensuring people have the internet access they need will help them be successful whether it's at home, work or school."
