Bell announced Tuesday it has completed the deployment of a new subsea fibre-optic cable system connecting Fogo Island and Change Islands to mainland Newfoundland.
Partly funded by the federal government’s Universal Broadband Fund, the project required more than 16 kilometres of subsea cable deployed across challenging terrain to bring high-speed fibre-to-the-home technology to the island communities, a Bell press release said.
A 24-count double-armour marine fibre-optic cable was installed in two segments: a 7.25-km link from Farewell to Change Islands and an 8.8-km link from Change Islands to Fogo Island, with maximum depths of 49 metres and 44 metres, respectively. Side-scan sonar and articulated pipe systems were used to map the seabed and protect the cable in surf zones and rocky terrain, Bell said.
“The project followed rigorous environmental assessments, including marine biology studies and habitat evaluations, ensuring minimal impact to sensitive ecosystems,” according to Bell’s press release.
This new fibre infrastructure replaces the islands’ dependence on microwave links, which will now serve as a backup transport system, Bell said, adding the upgrade positions Fogo and Change Islands for long-term digital growth by enhancing support for year-round tourism, remote work and access to essential services.
Bell said it aims to have the necessary distribution infrastructure operational by late fall 2025, with plans to begin offering customers access to the upgraded service soon after.
“Bringing fibre to Fogo and Change Islands is a major engineering achievement and a proud moment for our team,” said Mark McDonald, executive vice president and chief technology officer at Bell, in the press release. “This project reflects Bell’s commitment to connecting even the most remote communities with world-class broadband, unlocking new opportunities for residents, businesses, and visitors alike.”
“Today, access to reliable, high-speed Internet is a necessity, no matter where you live in Canada,” said Buckley Belanger, Canada’s secretary of state for rural development, in a statement. “The deployment of this subsea fibre optic cable system marks a major connectivity milestone for Fogo and Change Islands, making it easier for folks to grow an online business, get access to essential services, and stay connected with their loved ones.”
Photos courtesy of Bell
