Rogers Secures Extended Deadline for Rural Internet Project in British Columbia
The Canadian Radio-television and Telecommunications Commission (CRTC) has granted Rogers an extension on its rural internet initiative in British Columbia, pushing the completion date to 2027 after several delays.
Aiming for Better Connectivity
This project is part of the Broadband Fund, wich seeks to enhance internet and mobile service access across Canada. The goal is to provide speeds of at least 50 Mbps for downloads and 10 Mbps for uploads.
Background on the Initiative
In 2021, the CRTC approved Shaw's proposal to construct approximately 150 kilometers of fiber optic network along Highway 29, connecting Chetwynd and Fort St. John. This infrastructure aims to benefit seven communities in northeastern B.C., including Attachie, Bear Flat, Charlie Lake, Farrell Creek, Moberly Lake, Saulteau First Nations, and West Moberly First Nations.
Initial Expectations vs. reality
The commission typically anticipates that projects will be finished within three years from when funding is awarded. For this particular project, that would have meant a completion date by february 4, 2024. However, due to complications arising from BC Hydro’s Site C dam work and necessary adjustments along Highway 29, the deadline was already extended beyond what is usually expected.
Requesting More Time
This past June saw Rogers asking for an additional seven months to finalize the project by June 2025.They cited delays related to BC Hydro’s preparations needed before new cables could be installed on utility poles as a important factor in thier request. Furthermore, following Rogers' acquisition of Shaw in early 2023, they submitted another request in September to transfer control of this project from Shaw back to themselves.
CRTC's Decision on Extensions
The CRTC responded positively on February 2nd by allowing Rogers’ request for an extension until spring of 2027 instead of summer of that year. The commission acknowledged that “these third-party administrative delays were beyond Rogers’ reasonable contemplation and control.” Additionally, they approved Rogers' change-of-control request without impacting the project's overall scope or costs involved.
A Step Towards Improved Services
This decision marks a significant step towards improving internet services in rural areas where connectivity has been lacking historically. With these extensions granted by the CRTC—along with ongoing efforts from companies like Rogers—there's hope that residents will soon enjoy faster internet speeds essential for modern living.
The importance of reliable internet cannot be overstated; it plays a crucial role not just in entertainment but also education and remote work opportunities today more than ever before.
Source: CRTC | Via: Reddit
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