A newly completed fibre-optic network between Trail and Nelson via Salmo will help increase capacity for the development of connectivity networks within the region, according to a news release from B.C.'s Ministry of Citizens' Services.
The new project will provide increased information transfer capacity to communities along the route, including Erie, Hall, Meadows, Park Siding, Porto Rico, Ross Spur and Ymir.
The infrastructure creates the opportunity for internet service providers to use the fibre-optic capacity to further develop the in-community networks that provide cellular and internet services.
The project is being led by the Columbia Basin Trust.
"With the completion of this project, the Village of Salmo administration office and School District 8's Salmo elementary and secondary schools are now benefiting," said Diana Lockwood, mayor of Salmo, in the news release. "We're thankful to all the partners who were involved in making this project a reality."
The project was funded with more than $3 million from the Canadian Radio-television Telecommunications Commission. The Province of B.C. contributed $500,000 administered by the Northern Development Initiative Trust. Up to $821,000 was contributed by the Columbia Basin Trust as well as $400,000 from the Regional District of Central Kootenay.
"By investing in reliable, high-speed internet and cellular services in rural communities, we are opening up economic and educational opportunities, as well as providing better access to services like virtual health care," said Brittny Anderson, MLA for Nelson-Creston.
"I am grateful to our partners and the workers who are building this essential infrastructure and for the benefits it will bring for people in our region."
