The provincial government, in partnership with Hydro One, is working to bring high speed internet access to Brighton.
The announcement made on Friday would see as many as 1,450 homes and businesses get reliable high-speed internet by 2025.
“All communities deserve access to reliable and high-speed internet,” said Bay of Quinte MPP and the Minister of Energy Todd Smith. “By working with partners like Hydro One to use existing electricity infrastructure, we are accelerating our work to connect all communities by 2025.”
The pilot project will allow Hydro One to use their existing infrastructure, such as hydro poles, to fast-track the development of high-speed internet networks in Brighton, saving time and money.
Brighton Mayor Brian Ostrander says over the past two years they’ve seen people migrate out of the larger urban areas with the anticipation that they will be able to work from home.
“With this announcement, Hydro One’s pilot project will make that vision a reality and will enhance our ability to drive Brighton’s local economy forward,” he said. “We are grateful to our provincial and utility partners in helping make Brighton a hub for reliable high-speed internet services!”
The Brighton pilot project will be evaluated as part of the government’s goal to reach 100% access to connectivity by the end of 2025. If successful, this could allow for the exploration of high-speed internet initiatives in other rural communities that are similar to Brighton.