WELLINGTON COUNTY – The governments of Canada and Ontario have invested over $4.4 million to bring reliable high-speed internet to 1,771 families, farms, and businesses in Wellington County.
“Providing reliable internet access is especially important for rural communities to continue growing from strength to strength in our increasingly digital world,” said Sean Fraser, Minister of Housing, Infrastructure and Communities. “This announcement marks another milestone for homes, businesses, and farms in Wellington County that can now connect to essential services and enjoy the additional opportunities that come with high-speed internet.”
The federal and provincial governments have partnered with Southwestern Integrated Fibre Technology (SWIFT) Inc. to provide residents in the communities of Brucedale, Centre Inn, Everton, Oustic, Simpson Corners, Shands, Spier, Belwood, Eramosa, Orton, and Maple Leaf Acres 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 installing new broadband infrastructure in Wellington County, we’re building Ontario and strengthening rural communities. This investment is helping people stay in touch with loved ones, allowing families to connect with online services, and making it easier for businesses to reach potential customers.”
This announcement marks the completion of one more project 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.
The contracts to expand broadband services in Wellington County were awarded by SWIFT, a not-for-profit corporation initiated by local municipalities to address connectivity in Southwestern Ontario.
“We’re pleased to see the significant impact of our collective efforts in bringing reliable high-speed internet to Wellington County. This investment not only enhances connectivity but also promises to enrich the social and economic landscape of rural communities, enabling residents and businesses to thrive in today’s digital age. We would like to thank the governments of Canada and Ontario for their ongoing support as we continue to work together to bring greater connectivity to Southwestern Ontario,” said Gary McNamara, Board Chair, SWIFT.
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 nearly 67,000 homes and businesses in Southwestern Ontario through SWIFT.