LONDON, ON – More than 300 communities in Southwestern Ontario will receive improved high-speed internet connectivity thanks to $180 million in joint funding from the provincial and federal governments.
According to Tuesday’s announcement, the new SouthWestern Integrated Fibre Technology (SWIFT) project will expand access to broadband by delivering fibre optic coverage to and in between counties and municipalities in southwestern region of the province, as well as Caledon and Niagara. Broadband providers will participate through an open procurement process and will build, own, and operate the open-access network which will be made available to all service providers. Check out the SWIFT network FAQ page for more information.
"The Government of Canada's ongoing investments in broadband infrastructure are improving connectivity in communities across the country”, said Innovation, Science and Economic Development minister Navdeep Bains, in a statement. “By providing better access to a wider variety of online tools and resources, we are increasing the potential for economic growth and diversification in these communities, and are helping the middle class and those working hard to join it."
The total estimated project cost is $281 million. The governments of Canada and Ontario will each contribute up to $90 million through the New Building Canada Fund's Provincial-Territorial Infrastructure Component–Small Communities Fund. The Western Ontario Wardens' Caucus (a designated group of local politicians representing each region and its taxpayers) will be responsible for the remaining project costs.
"This announcement will bring critical broadband infrastructure to the southwestern Ontario region”, added Ontario Minister of Infrastructure Bob Chiarelli. “High-speed internet will connect people and businesses to the resources they need to compete in the global marketplace and strengthen our economy. Equipping the province with the tools they need to succeed is one of the ways we're helping to build Ontario up."
