Ontario Construction News staff writer
The provincial government will spend nearly $4 billion to bring high-speed internet to all communities across Ontario by the end of 2025.
Calling it the largest single investment in high-speed internet in Canadian history, Infrastructure Ontario (IO) says the expansion also needs a financial commitment from the federal government.
If all goes as planned, the province will connect “every Ontarian” by expanding broadband and cell service to currently underserved and unserviced communities last fall prior to presenting its budget in November.
Infrastructure Ontario will lead a “transparent and competitive” procurement process, starting this summer to enable Internet Service Providers (ISPs) to bid through a series of reverse auction events for defined geographic areas, and based on requirements for high-speed internet infrastructure deployment.
“This historic nearly $4 billion investment means every home, community and area in Ontario will have access to high-speed internet,” said Infrastructure Minister Kinga Surma in a statement.
“Our new procurement approach and transformative investments will help ensure that no one is left behind when it comes to accessing our digital world. No matter where you live, you will have access to reliable, high-speed internet to work, learn, start a business, access vital services like health care, and connect with family and friends.”
