Ultra-High Speed Internet Coming to 300 Communities in Southwestern Ontario

Ultra-High Speed Internet Coming to 300 Communities in Southwestern Ontario

London, ON – July 26, 2016

The governments of Ontario and Canada are investing up to $180 million to help bring ultra-high speed internet to homes and businesses in southwestern Ontario.

Canada and Ontario will each provide up to $90 million towards the total project cost of approximately $281 million. This investment is part of the new Southwestern Integrated Fibre Technology (SWIFT) project, which will expand access to broadband by delivering fibre optic coverage to over 300 communities with a total population of 3.5 million — spanning counties and municipalities in southwestern Ontario, as well as Caledon and Niagara.

The project will help southwestern Ontario communities and businesses better compete in global markets, attract new jobs and improve quality of life. It will also allow individuals to use online resources to gain skills and experience.

Expanding high-speed internet access is part of the government’s economic plan to build Ontario up and deliver on its number-one priority to grow the economy and create jobs. The four-part plan includes helping more people get and create the jobs of the future by expanding access to high-quality college and university education. The plan is making the largest infrastructure investment in hospitals, schools, roads, bridges and transit in Ontario’s history and is investing in a low-carbon economy driven by innovative, high-growth, export-oriented businesses. The plan is also helping working Ontarians achieve a more secure retirement.

“This project will bring critical broadband infrastructure to southwestern Ontario. High-speed internet will connect people and businesses to the resources they need to compete in the global marketplace and strengthen our economy. Equipping people in the province with the tools they need to succeed is one of the ways we’re helping to build Ontario up.” Bob Chiarelli, Ontario Minister of Infrastructure.

“Just as businesses depend on roads and electricity, high-speed Internet is fundamental to advancing the province’s economic interests. We are encouraged by the government’s decision to prioritize investment in local community infrastructure, which is critical for economic growth in the digital age.” Allan O’Dette, President and CEO, Ontario Chamber of Commerce.