Fedeli Delivers Faster Broadband to Chisholm
January 20, 2021Faster and more reliable internet access will help increase opportunity and quality of life
CHISHOLM – Today, MPP Vic Fedeli announced a $425,000 project that will upgrade broadband infrastructure, ensuring access to faster broadband for 200 homes and businesses in Chisholm. The Province is investing $267,473 while Spectrum Group is providing $127,368 and the Township of Chisholm is contributing $29,719 to support the project.
The new infrastructure is easily upgraded to meet demand from additional subscribers in Chisholm and surrounding areas. Ontario is bridging the digital divide and creating more economic opportunity by investing in high-speed broadband for residents and businesses in the Township of Chisholm.
“Reliable broadband service is certainly needed for life in the 21st century and today’s announcement is a step towards making broadband improvements for our rural businesses, families and individuals”, said MPP Fedeli. “Now, more than ever, the residents of Chisholm are relying on internet to access services, working from home and connecting with their loved ones.”
“This is an exciting day for Chisholm Township, East Ferris, and Powassan. Now more than ever, residents in Northern Ontario need access to faster, more reliable broadband service,” said Laurie Scott, Minister of Infrastructure. “Our investments will make it easier for people to work and learn from home, run their businesses, access vital services, and connect with others.”
“I am thrilled with the funding announcement to upgrade broadband infrastructure within the Township of Chisholm” said Mayor Gail Degagne, “Broadband is a priority with Council and staff, especially now with the pandemic. There is an increase of people working from home and students doing online learning which has made high speed internet an essential service now more than ever.”
The project is led by the Blue Sky Economic Growth Corporation, which helps communities and service providers to improve broadband access. This investment is part of Up to Speed: Ontario’s Broadband and Cellular Action Plan. On November 4, 2020, the Ontario government announced its investment of $680 million on top of its existing commitment to improve connectivity in the province, leading to a historic investment of nearly $1 billion over six years
QUICK FACTS
- Blue Sky Economic Growth Corporation is leading this project, working with the Township of Chisholm and Spectrum Group, a local service provider to upgrade and install infrastructure.
- Ontario has invested in several initiatives to improve connectivity in Northern Ontario, including broadband projects through the Northern Ontario Heritage Fund Corporation and the Next Generation Network Program.
- On July 9, 2020, the Province launched the Improving Connectivity in Ontario (ICON) program, a multi-year program that aims to support approved broadband and cellular projects, as early as Spring 2021. Ontario announced in November 2020 it was doubling funding in the program to $300 million.