Rural Ontarians benefitting from increased access to broadband services
WATERLOO REGION – The governments of Canada and Ontario are investing over $6.1 million to bring reliable high-speed internet to 869 families, farms, and businesses in Waterloo Region. “Providing reliable internet access is especially important for rural communities to prosper in our increasingly digital world,” said Sean Fraser, Minister of Housing, Infrastructure and Communities. “Today’s announcement marks another milestone for homes, businesses, and farms in Waterloo Region that can now connect to essential online services and enjoy the additional economic opportunities made available through high-speed internet.”
The federal and provincial governments have partnered with Southwestern Integrated Fibre Technology (SWIFT) Inc. to provide residents in the communities of Maryhill, Dorking, Macton, North Woolwich, Josephburg, and Erbsville with access to broadband infrastructure that will enable high-speed internet service. “Ontario continues to deliver on its commitment to expand access to high-speed internet to communities across the province,” said Lisa Thompson, Minister of Agriculture, Food and Rural Affairs. “By building new broadband infrastructure in Waterloo Region, we’re helping to build Ontario and strengthen rural communities. This investment is helping people stay in touch with loved ones, enabling them to access the supports they need while providing a much-needed boost to the local economy.”
This announcement marks the completion of two more projects under SWIFT and builds on the Ontario government’s plan to get the right infrastructure in the right places – ensuring people can live, work and farm where they want.
“By expanding broadband access, we’re positioning rural communities in the Waterloo area for further growth and prosperity,” said Mike Harris, MPP for Kitchener-Conestoga. “I’m confident that this investment will have long-lasting economic benefits in the region, and I look forward to seeing how it improves the quality of life for our rural residents.”
The contracts to expand broadband services in Waterloo Region were awarded by SWIFT, a not-for-profit corporation initiated by local municipalities to address connectivity in Southwestern Ontario.
“With the support of the federal and provincial governments, SWIFT is making strong progress in the expansion of broadband infrastructure across Southwestern Ontario,” said Gary McNamara, SWIFT Board Chair. “Today’s announcement builds on our program’s commitment to drive greater connectivity throughout the region as we are pleased to announce the successful completion of two high-speed fibre-optic projects in the Region of Waterloo, collectively providing more than 865 additional homes and businesses with access to high-speed internet service.”
More than $255 million has been invested by the governments of Canada and Ontario and the private sector to bring high-speed internet access to more than 63,000 homes and businesses in Southwestern Ontario through SWIFT by the end of 2023.