EDMONTON and CALGARY – Telus has pledged to spend upwards of $700 million on their advanced wireless and wireline broadband infrastructure in Alberta.
Work is currently underway on its next generation wireless network which the company expects to launch in Alberta and nationally by early 2010.
Using the latest version of the high speed packet access (HSPA) technology, Telus said in a press release that the investment is expected to “ensure an optimal future transition to long term evolution (LTE) technology”, the emerging worldwide standard for fourth generation (4G) networks.
Its broadband wireline network is also scheduled to launch by 2010 and will “significantly expand the reach” of Telus’ high-speed Internet and Telus TV service in Alberta.
“Despite the challenging times we are committed to making significant investments that benefit the economy, our communities, and our customers," said Darren Entwistle, president and CEO, in the release. "Our investment of more than $700 million in leading broadband technology will create employment opportunities, contribute to the province’s future competitiveness, and support the launch of innovative new services for Telus customers."
The statement on the Alberta spending plans follows last month’s announcement that Telus is investing $500-million this year in B.C. The capital investment, which is consistent with Telus’ overall capital expenditure guidance for 2009, is expected to “support” more than 2,100 jobs.
Canada’s second-largest telecommunications operator is facing criticism from its union over the outsourcing of jobs after it announced plans to open a fourth facility in the Philippines.
