Cable / Telecom News

Eastern Ontario broadband expansion project unveils 10-year digital strategy

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TORONTO – The Eastern Ontario Regional Network (EORN) has released its long-term digital strategy that it says paves the way for Eastern Ontario to become a leader in using rural broadband access to help create strong, sustainable communities.

EORN, which has built a $170 million rural broadband network that helps connect more than 99% of Eastern Ontario residents and businesses with high-speed internet, unveiled the 10-year Digital Strategy this week at a meeting of provincial ministers during the 2015 OGRA/ROMA Combined Conference in Toronto.

Current priorities include using EORN's 5,500-kilometre fibre optic backbone to improve mobile broadband access and cell service; leveraging the network for regional economic development activities; increasing the number of residents and businesses who take advantage of the network; and using the network to improve municipal and other public services.

"The Digital Strategy aims to build on our success, by making sure that the network keeps pace with changing demands," said EORN chair David Burton, in the news release. "Through continued advocacy and partnership, EORN will support communities in using the network to its fullest potential."

www.eorn.ca