SMITHERS, B.C. – A new Rogers’ cell tower being installed along Highway 16 that promises to bring continuous network coverage from New Hazelton to Smithers, as well as to Witset First Nation for the first time.
The project was made possible by a one-time $1.2 million grant from the province, administered by the Northern Development Initiative Trust, to expand cellular services along Highway 16. Northern Development Initiative Trust chose Rogers for the project following an open-procurement process.
Construction of the cell tower began in late September and is expected to be completed in the coming months. After it is in service, every Indigenous community along the road, which is known as the Highway of Tears due to the number of missing or murdered Indigenous women and girls associated with the route, will have access to modern cellular connectivity.
Voice, data and text services via high-speed wireless and internet coverage on 4G and LTE networks will be available for Rogers and Fido customers once the tower is operational. Customers using other providers will be able to dial 911 in the community and along the highway.
“We are pleased to be working with the B.C. government, Northern Development Initiative Trust and the Witset community to build reliable connectivity for residents in Northern British Columbia”, said Rogers’ B.C. president Rick Sellers, in the news release. “We know our customers want high quality wireless access, whether travelling the highway, accessing community resources, or connecting with family and friends.”
Formerly known as the Moricetown Band, Witset First Nation is located approximately 34 kilometres north of Smithers and along the Bulkley River Valley. Witset comprises seven First Nation communities.
“In addition to being a critical lifeline during an emergency, cell service will help improve people’s access to education, employment and health-care services”, added Witset First Nation chief Victor Jim. “Our Nation is excited for the benefits that cellular service will unlock, especially in regards to the safety of the highway.”
