Communities near Prince George, like Salmon Valley, Willow River, and Westlake are part of the 19 areas in BC that will see their internet connection upgraded.
The Connecting British Columbia program will be giving Telus up to $3.6 million to upgrade their internet service by October. 31, 2021.
Some of the areas affected include: Buffalo Creek, Gateway, Forest Grove, Eagle Creek, Canim Lake, Blue River, and Rolla.
This is all part of the Stronger BC Economic Recovery Plan, which is an initiative aiming to help businesses grow in the province.
“As a business in a rural area, upgrading internet service in the area will not only provide opportunities for growth but will help us recover from the impacts the pandemic has had on our company,” said Rhonda Brown, owner, Orville’s Backhoe & Septic Service. “High-speed, reliable internet will help us to not only reach out to our clients to set up appointments and bill for jobs but help us to train employees virtually.”
Many upgrades are already underway. Vincent Communications has already received over $500,000, and completed a similar project for people in Attachie, Bear Flat, Buick, Cecil Lake, Kobes, Mile 62 ½, Montney, Pink Mountain and Wonowon.
“As owners of a resort on Canim Lake, we are thrilled to welcome improved internet in the area. Our guests are always looking for reliable service while they are vacationing or working remotely,” said Leanne Sallenback, owner of South Point Resort. “This is definitely a step in the right direction. We will be able to offer our guests faster and more reliable internet services during their stay with us.”
These upgrades will be coupled with the Launch Online Grant, and the Digital Marketing Bootcamp to help businesses transition to the online marketplace.