CHURCHILL, MB – While still awaiting regulatory approval of BCE’s proposed acquisition of Manitoba Telecom Services (MTS), the two companies said Monday that they are expanding broadband communications infrastructure in the town of Churchill, including rolling out Gigabit Fibe Internet and Fibe TV services.
Located at the edge of the Arctic on Hudson’s Bay, Churchill is a northern transportation hub also known as the Polar Bear Capital of the World, attracting tourists from around the world each year for polar bear, beluga whale and bird watching and as one of the best places to experience the Northern Lights.
"Bell MTS is proud to contribute to the Churchill community. We plan to deliver world-class communications services throughout Manitoba, from more remote communities like Churchill to the largest urban centres, all of which will benefit from the social, economic and innovation opportunities enabled by advanced broadband networks like Fibe and mobile LTE," said Wade Oosterman, Bell's Group president and chief brand officer, in the news release.
"Broadband communications infrastructure plays a vital role in attracting new businesses, residents and visitors by supporting enhanced connectivity, security and development opportunities for everyone in the community”, added MTS SVP network and field services Patricia Solman. “This Bell MTS service expansion will help bring the world to Churchill, and Churchill to the world."
The expansion plans are part of Bell’s five-year, $1 billion commitment to expand broadband wireless and fibre services in Manitoba following the closing of its proposed $3.9B acquisition of MTS, expected in late 2016 or early 2017.
