CityWest to receive more than 10 million dollars for Connecting British Columbia project

More than 2,800 Coastal First Nation households will soon have reliable internet connectivity following an announcement from the British Columbia government that awards more than 10 million dollars in funding to Prince Rupert based CityWest for another internet connection project.

With the funding, the Northwest Communication company is now set to enhance the internet opportunities for a number of coastal communities and those within the territories of the Haida Nation, Nuxalk Nation, Ehattesaht First Nation and Klahoose First Nation.

CityWest CEO Stefan Wolosyzn noted how the program will offer opportunity for more underserved remote communities to hook into the Connected Coast project, the 45.4 million dollar investment that will bring fibre-optic connection to a wide swath of coastal communities on the North and Central Coasts, Haida Gwaii and Vancouver Island.

“We’re thrilled to be part of this opportunity to expand into some significantly underserved areas of the province, many of which will be hooked into our new undersea fibre Connected Coast project. We have heard from community leaders about how connectivity is critical to foster growth in the digital economy and navigate the challenges of the COVID-19 pandemic. The Strathcona Regional District and communities have worked tirelessly with us to improve connectivity for people on the coast.”

Among some of the communities to benefit from the advancements in internet connectivity are the Village of Queen Charlotte, Skidegate, Masset, Bella Coola, 4 Mile, Granite Bay, Bold Point, Open Bay, Mansons Landing, Whaletown, Seaford, Tork, Zeballos and Ehatis.

Lisa Beare, the Minister for Citizens services also shared enthusiasm for today's announcement noting how the project will offer a range of benefits to residents of the coastal communities.

“We’re rolling up our sleeves and joining with communities, First Nations and service providers to usher in a new age of connectivity along B.C.’s stunning coastline. Improvements to internet access will begin to arrive this year, unlocking opportunities for people, families and workplaces in coastal areas. Connectivity brings the world to our doorsteps. Together, we can ensure people in coastal communities have the internet access they need.”

You can review all the details to today's announcement here.

More notes from the BC Legislature can be explored here.

Items of interest from CityWest can be reviewed here.