SW Ontario counties receive $12 million for broadband projects
The federal and provincial governments have announced funding of nearly $12 million for 14 projects to bring broadband connectivity to three communities in Southwest Ontario.
The largest share of the funding—$4.2 million—is being spent on six contracts in Middlesex County, in which London is located.
Construction of the infrastructure networks in Middlesex County are expected to be up and running with service to start in March 2022. These projects are valued at $7.5 million and will deliver broadband internet access to 1,100 homes and businesses in underserved areas.
"In 2021, the ability to stay connected—whether to family, friends or customers—has never been more important,” said Lambton-Kent-Middlesex MPP Monte McNaughton. "For years we have been working to improve access to broadband. I'm pleased to see more families and businesses in Middlesex will have the opportunity to stay connected to the things that matter most to them."
The governments hinted that further broadband expansion projects would soon be announced, pending final negotiations and approvals.
In nearby Perth County, the governments announced a combined investment of $3.6 million for five contracts that would provide broadband services to more than 860 residents and businesses.
Construction of that network is expected to be up and running with service starting in March 2022. Those projects are valued at $6.6 million.
"I am proud of the progress our government has made, in collaboration with our partners, towards reaching our goal of connecting all Canadian homes and businesses to high-speed Internet," said Kitchener-Conestoga MP Tim Louis. "Today's investment will bring fast and reliable broadband access to more families and businesses in Perth County, giving them access to essential services that are critical to ensuring the health, safety, and wellbeing of their families."
Finally, in Elgin County, the governments have committed $4 million to deliver enhanced services to 1,400 residents and businesses.
Construction of the next work will be performed across three contracts, and is expected to be completed by September 2022. The projects are valued at a combined $6.1 million.
All contracts were awarded by Southwestern Integrated Fibre Technology (SWIFT) Inc, a not-for-profit corporation initiated by local municipalities to address connectivity in Southwestern Ontario. To date, more than 2,140 households and businesses in Southwestern Ontario have received access to improved broadband through SWIFT.
"Once complete, the newly announced fibre networks will provide many more residents living in Southwestern Ontario with access to fast, reliable internet connectivity to better support digital learning, provide increased employment opportunities and enable greater economic prosperity within the region," said SWIFT board chair David Mayberry.
Work continues to bridge the gaps in broadband access in Southwestern Ontario, as part of a combined federal-provincial investment of more than $191 million to bring fast, reliable and affordable internet to thousands of homes and businesses. This will allow communities to attract new development, strengthen local economies and create more well-paying jobs and opportunities in rural Ontario.