IfG.CC -
Institute for eGovernment

In March 2008, the provincial government announced it is investing $30 million over the next four years to expand high-speed access to underserviced communities in rural southern Ontario. The Rural Connections Broadband Program, a joint initiative between the ministries of Agriculture, Food and Rural Affairs, Government Services, and Small Business and Consumer Services, will have a positive impact on families in Bruce County, as it will reduce broadband infrastructure gaps, enable businesses to participate in the digital economy, and improve access to public services such as e-learning, e-health and e-government.

The County of Bruce recognizes that a large portion of residents, as well as small and medium businesses, are limited in their access to high-speed connectivity. Over the course of the next year, the county will be conducting a gap analysis to identify the locations lacking connectivity, meeting with Internet Service Providers (ISP's) to distinguish possible remedies, and preparing a proposal to expand the availability of broadband technology to underserviced areas.

Once the proposal receives approval, the province will contribute up to one-third, to a maximum of $1 million, to implement the proposal. The remainder of the funds will come from county funds and project partners.

To be successful in bringing high-speed to Bruce, Broadband Bruce County needs the help of residents, businesses, the agricultural sector and public services. Plan to attend town hall meetings this fall in your municipality to add your voice. Dates and locations will be announced.

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Quelle/Source: The Post, 19.09.2008

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