People in the Takla Lake area will have improved cellular coverage and internet thanks to the construction of a new tower.
Residents of North Tacla 7 and the area will be able to rely on just over five kilometres of road coverage within the Nation community. In addition, this will enable access to voice, data, and Emergency 9-1-1 services.
“Everyone has a right to quality high-speed internet. Connecting every rural, remote and Indigenous community in B.C. by 2027 continues to be a top priority for our government,” said Lisa Beare, Minister of Citizens’ Services.
“This tower will help residents of North Tacla Lake 7 and Takla Lake feel more connected to services, friends, and family, and help people access more opportunities in business and education.”
The province has allocated two million dollars through the Connecting BC program via Northern Development Initiative.
“Through this investment, 93 households in North Tacla Lake 7 will be able to connect to reliable 4G LTE service. This is another step in closing the digital divide in B.C. and opening doors to new opportunities for area residents,” said Joel McKay, CEO.
“Improved connectivity will support Takla Nation’s growing tourism-based business ventures, which will create impactful economic benefits. Members will also gain new access to virtual health care, online learning, and other aspects of today’s connected world from the comfort of their homes.”
The total cost of the project is $2.3 million.
In March, the BC Government partnered with Ottawa to provide $830 million to expand high-speed internet services to rural and First Nations communities that are underserved.
The plan is to connect every BC household with high-speed internet by 2027.