Local Access Contract Improves Broadband Access to 800 Kawartha Lakes Households

SEBRIGHT, ON, June 7, 2012 /CNW/ - The Eastern Ontario Wardens' Caucus (EOWC) has awarded a Local Access Contract that will improve access to high-speed Internet to about 800 homes and businesses in the area surrounding Sebright, located in the northwestern corner of Kawartha Lakes. The service will be available in fall of 2013.

As part of the contract, Xplornet Communications Inc. will build a wireless network which will give a substantial portion of the 250-square kilometre region access to speeds of up to 10 Mbps. These speeds enable users to stream video and use other innovative applications.

"We continue to make steady progress on our goal of expanding high-speed broadband Internet access across Eastern Ontario," said Mel Campbell, Chair of the EOWC.  "Connecting to the Internet with higher speeds will open new doors for our communities in terms of quality of life and economic growth."

In all, 22 local access contracts will be awarded in 15 zones to deliver high-speed Internet through wired and fixed wireless services as part of the Eastern Ontario regional broadband project. Work to build a massive, 5,500-kilometre fibre optic network is near completion and contracts have also been signed to deliver high-speed via satellite at improved pricing. The $170 million project is funded by federal, provincial and municipal governments and private sector investment.

"It is gratifying to see this regional broadband network grow. This is another important step towards providing the improved access that will help our residents and businesses to prosper," added Dave Burton, Chair of Eastern Ontario Regional Network Inc. (EORN).

EORN is a not-for-profit organization established by the EOWC to manage all contracts awarded as part of the project.

Disponible en français.

Lisa Severson, Communications & Stakeholder Relations Officer, EORN
613-213-8520, [email protected]