Ontario Construction News staff writer
A $1.8 million project to connect more than 890 homes, farms and businesses in Long Point and Old Cut in Norfolk County to high-speed internet will be completed in June at a total cost of $1.8 million. The federal and provincial governments each contributed $592,000 for the work.
“Access to high-speed internet is essential for Canadians living in rural communities,” said Jennifer O’Connell, parliamentary secretary to the minister of intergovernmental affairs, infrastructure and communities. “The completion of a new fibre optic network in Norfolk County will mean hundreds of residents will have improved access to internet, helping them grow their businesses, find work, access essential services, and connect with the world.”
The contract to expand broadband services in Norfolk County was awarded by Southwestern Integrated Fibre Technology (SWIFT) Inc, a not-for-profit corporation, initiated by local municipalities to address connectivity in Southwestern Ontario.
“I have long advocated for better internet service in rural Ontario, that’s why I am very pleased to announce this broadband expansion in Norfolk County,” said local MPP Toby Barrett. “Hundreds of families, farms and businesses will benefit from this project. Our government remains committed to building critical infrastructure needed to support communities in Haldimand-Norfolk and across the province.”
Across the province, more than $255 million has been invested by government and businesses, to bring high-speed internet to more than 63,000 households and businesses in Southwestern Ontario through SWIFT by the end of 2025.
“SWIFT, in partnership with the governments of Ontario and Canada, is pleased to mark the start of construction on a high-speed fibre-optic network in Norfolk County that will provide almost 900 homes and businesses throughout the communities of Long Point and Old Cut with access to fast reliable internet connectivity,” said Gary McNamara, SWIFT board chair
The governments of Canada and Ontario are each granting more than $63 million to SWIFT through the New Building Canada Fund’s Provincial-Territorial Infrastructure Component – Small Communities Fund of the Investing in Canada plan.
