VICTORIA – The British Columbia government today announced improved cellular coverage is coming to Highway 3 between Hope and Keremeos, providing better safety for travellers along the route.
Rogers Communications is the service provider for the project, which involves the addition of 11 new cell towers and will expand coverage over approximately 92 kilometres of the highway, according to a press release. The project is expected to be completed by the fall of 2024.
“Cellular coverage along this section of Highway 3 is intermittent, with coverage gaps between Hope and Manning Park and between Princeton and Keremeos presenting the greatest challenge,” the press release explains. “This project will ensure consistent cellular coverage along the entire route.”
The B.C. government is investing up to $3.1 million through the Connecting British Columbia program, which is administered through the Northern Development Initiative Trust (NDIT). The remainder of the costs for the $9.7-million project will be provided by Rogers.
“We are working hard to expand connectivity where it’s most needed in the province,” said Lisa Beare, minister of Citizens’ Services, in the release. “Cellular coverage along key transport routes like Highway 3 is important for both commercial and recreational travellers, as it will enable people to stay connected and to access road safety updates and important emergency services while on the road.”
“Recent climate events in B.C. have shown how vulnerable our infrastructure can be and the importance of connectivity in an emergency situation,” said Jorge Fernandes, chief technology officer for Rogers.
“We are pleased to work together with the Government of B.C. and NDIT to deliver much-needed cellular coverage that will ensure access to mobile calls, data and emergency numbers, providing peace of mind and safety for travellers along this route.”
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