It’s been nearly a year since a $200,000 investment by the government of B.C. helped create one of the fastest rural Internet service connections to serve the Vancouver Island community of Gold River.

The new microwave broadcast system link means over 300 megabits are now available to Conuma Cable customers in over seven times the previous level. The new link also provides better, more reliable, uninterrupted Internet service eliminating slowdowns at peak hours.

Families living in the area, who were previously on wait lists for service, now have Internet connectivity, giving more families the ability to go online. Local businesses are also taking advantage of the economic potential of better access. Now Gold River companies can connect with clients more easily anywhere in the world or provide Wi-Fi for customers in their shops and restaurants.

High-speed Internet and cellular access in rural areas are vital for improved public safety and enhanced communications, for access to education and health services, economic development and creating jobs in B.C.

The $200,000 investment from the B.C. government assisted with the upgraded connectivity infrastructure. Another $200,000 was provided by Conuma Cable, who built and operates the system. The connection between the microwave link and the Internet is through a high-speed fibre-optic network operated in partnership between Conuma Cable and Shaw Communications.

This project represents an example of government’s commitment to finding creative solutions to bring broadband access to 100% of British Columbians by 2021.

Quotes:

Minister of Technology, Innovation and Citizens’ Services Andrew Wilkinson -

“This project is an example of government and local service providers working together to bring better access to B.C.’s rural communities. Everyone in the area is benefiting from greater access to online services, educational resources and economic opportunities.”

MLA, Comox Valley, Don McRae -

“A good high-speed Internet connection helps residents and businesses in communities like Gold River connect to the world. It’s why we’ve made getting broadband service to every British Columbians one of our goals.”

Owner/operator, Uptown Cappuccino, Sharon Charette -

“The new link means my Internet customers have the high speeds they want. Video chats work better for tourists, and no more frustration for every day users. It's been a good thing for everyone.”

Systems manager, Conuma Cable Systems Ltd., Stephen Savola -

“Without partners like the government of B.C. we couldn’t have built this link. Our work together means affordable, fast and reliable Internet service in Gold River. We’re proud of what we’ve accomplished deploying this new system, and are glad local folks are enjoying the benefits.”

President, Shaw Communications, Peter Bissonnette -

“This partnership not only gives the residents of Gold River access to faster Internet speeds and greater bandwidth, it highlights our continuing commitment to finding solutions that provide local communities with more reliable Internet service.”

Quick Facts:

• The system installed in 2013 has created two of the fastest rural community Internet connections in B.C.
• Bandwidth in Gold River has increased from a total 40 megabits per second to 300 megabits per second.
• Online connections will no longer slow down during peak usage.
• Approximately 30 customers on a waiting list have now been hooked up.
• Wait-listed subscribers were provided a free modem and installation through Conuma Cable to thank them for their patience.
• The link uses a microwave transmission system that sends a signal from Gold River to a Conuma Cable base station facility, which feeds into the Shaw Communications fibre optic infrastructure, all at the speed of light.
• The first link for the project was connected to Tahsis in July 2013.

Learn More:

About how Network BC is connecting B.C. at: www.network.gov.bc.ca

Media Contacts:

Melody Wey
Ministry of Technology, Innovation and Citizens’ Services
250 508-5030