A collaboration between the federal government and the government of British Columbia continues to equip households throughout the province with reliable access to high-speed internet.
“High-speed internet is essential infrastructure for people to learn, work, connect, access healthcare, and grow their businesses, no matter where they live,” says Diana Gibson, Minister of Citizens’ Services.
The latest round of investment and projects focuses on the Thompson-Okanagan region.
“Through our partnership with the Government of Canada and Telus, we are expanding reliable connectivity across the regions like Thompson-Okanagan,” remarked Gibson.
Through the Connecting Communities BC program and the federal Universal Broadband Fund, $63 million will support the construction of a new fibre-optic network serving 4,000 households.
“Reliable high-speed internet helps people access services, pursue education, grow businesses, and stay connected to their communities,” says Harwinder Sandhu, MLA for Vernon-Lumby. “Through this investment, we are helping more people throughout the Thompson-Okanagan region benefit from the opportunities that connectivity brings, while supporting stronger communities and local economies for years to come.”
Telus will lead the design and construction of the fibre-optic network, with completion anticipated in 2029.
The projects will reach 50 communities—including Rock Creek, Sorrento, Falkland, Kettle Valley, Westbridge, Beaverdell, and Bridesville—which are described as “areas where geography and distance have historically limited access to reliable internet.”
“Telus is committed to bridging the digital divide across British Columbia,” stated Liz Wong, vice-president of national network planning for Telus. “Connectivity is fundamental to ensuring every British Columbian can fully participate in our digital economy and build thriving futures.”
Canada’s Connectivity Strategy promises Internet speeds of at least 50 megabits per second download and 10 Mbps upload, while The Universal Broadband Fund is a $3.2 billion investment from the federal government to help provide access to 100% of Canadians by 2030.
“Staying connected for rural folks is a necessity for safety, quality of life, and for a community’s growth and economic development,” commented Steve Morissette, parliamentary secretary for rural development. “Connectivity investments like this one are vital to ensuring people in local communities thrive from online access to business, education and employment opportunities.”
The announcement follows $236M for eight projects impacting 13,000 households, which is part of an existing agreement between the governments of Canada and British Columbia established in 2022.
Today, 96% of Canadian households have access to high-speed Internet, compared to 79% in 2014. In B.C., that figure is almost 97%.
Since 2015, the Government of Canada has invested nearly $600M in connectivity projects in British Columbia.
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Telus to Power Fast Internet for Small Communities in Thompson-Okanagan was first posted on June 15, 2026 at 5:01 am.
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