Rural Milton might be getting some help from the Ontario Government.
Ontario Premier Doug Ford has announced broadband funding for rural communities across the province. Nearly $1 billion over six years is being given out to improve and expand broadband and cellular access across the province. The $680 million being announced on Wednesday is on top of the $315 million to support Up to Speed: Ontario’s Broadband and Cellular Action Plan.
Premier speaks on the necessity of better internet in 2020.
Ford adds that the COVID-19 pandemic has shown how important high-speed internet is for every resident. From working from home, to children doing online learning, to watching your favourite shows to unwind, it’s important to have fast-serving and reliable internet and cell service that reaches all communities.
The Regional Councillor for Milton’s Ward 1, Colin Best, spoke with myFM prior to the announcement. As the Councillor for the most rural parts of Milton, he speaks to what residents in Campbellville and beyond are going through on a daily basis.
Over 1.4 million people in Ontario do not have broadband or cellular access, and as many as 12% of households in Ontario, mostly in rural, remote or Northern areas, are underserved or unserved from the perspective of broadband, according to Canadian Radio-television and Telecommunications Commission (CRTC) data.
“This investment will connect even more residents in communities across Ontario to faster, more reliable Internet and cell service,” said Minister Scott. “Today’s commitment to connect more people to reliable broadband and cellular service ― along with many others we’ve made ― will make it easier for more people to work and learn from home, run their businesses and connect with others.”
