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Wells, Perow to get cellular service

A pair of gaps in cellphone coverage in the Central Interior are about to be filled.
cellphone

A pair of gaps in cellphone coverage in the Central Interior are about to be filled.

Aided by a nearly $1.8-million commitment from the provincial government, Telus is to have two new cell towers erected by the end of October, the Ministry of Citizens' Services said Wednesday.

One will extend coverage for six kilometres along Highway 26 and bring Wells into the fold.  The Jack-of-Clubs Lake rest area will also be upgraded to offer Wi-Fi to travellers.

The other will add eight kilometres of along Highway 16 West and bring the service to Perow, just west of Topley.

"These new cell towers bring important connectivity to stretches of highway that previously lacked coverage, enhancing the safety of travel across British Columbia and bringing local residents more peace of mind, knowing that help is only a phone call away when they are on the road," said Telus vice-president of wireless networks Raymond Saoumah.

He said Telus has brought service to more than 1,700 kilometres of previously unconnected highway in partnership with the government since 2011.
 

Quesnel Search and Rescue manager Gerald Shut said the expanded service will aid in its efforts when volunteers are called out to look for a lost or stranded outdoor enthusiast.

"It's a good idea for the travelling public and commerce as this highway is used extensively by people in agriculture, mining, logging, ranching and tourism," Shut said.

It was the latest in a series of announced plans to extend coverage.

On Monday, the the province announced $5.47 million in funding for a $6.4 million project to fill along Highway 97 in the Pine Pass, also to be completed by the end of October.

And in early April, the federal and provincial governments announced $4.5 million towards the $11.6-million cost improving signal strength between Prince Rupert and Smithers along Highway 16 West, with an October 2022 completion date.

Rogers Communication will carry out both projects.