A new rural infrastructure project has been announced, with plans to bring high-speed internet to thousands of homes and businesses in Northumberland County.
Northumberland County, along with the provincial government, federal government, and private sector partners are installing fibre optic cable that will bring high-speed connection to communities that have previously been unable to get faster internet, due to the region’s varied terrain and lack of infrastructure.
The network is being constructed by Axel Telecom, a Canadian-owned company, and will take place along existing road allowances and primarily underground lines.
Installation has already begun in Trent Hills and Port Hope. When the project is done, every municipality in the county, along with Alderville First Nations, will have access to high-speed internet. Installation is expected to continue throughout 2025.
Residents will be given the option to have their homes connected to the lines for free as they are installed in their area, with service plans available from Axel Telecom.
The plan is receiving majority funding from the provincial and federal governments, with $45.8 million in provincial funding and $18.4 million from the federal government. Northumberland County has invested $700,000 in the endeavour.