High Speed Connectivity Coming to Mackenzie

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

The District of Mackenzie has signed a partnering agreement with Internet Service Provider CityWest to bring high speed fibre-optic connectivity to Mackenzie.  CityWest is a municipally owned telecommunications company that provides Internet, telephone, and television services.  CityWest was founded in Prince Rupert more than 100 years ago and has been providing reliable telecommunication services across British Columbia since that time.

Funding from the Federal government of $3,116,795 will cover the cost of high-speed internet to 1208 households. The remaining 720 homes located in the townsite will be funded by the partnership between the District of Mackenzie and CityWest, who will equally share the required additional investment of $2.2 million (at $1.1 million each). This additional funding of $2.2 million is required to provide high speed service to the 720 homes who were identified ineligible by our current local service provider. Start date will be Spring 2024 with an anticipated completion date by Fall 2025.

Quote from Mayor Joan Atkinson

“This is very exciting news for Mackenzie and addresses the long-standing issue of inadequate internet provision. We are very grateful for CityWest’s commitment to partner with us. Council recognizes residents have waited a long time for this announcement and we thank them for their patience.”

Quote from Stefan Woloszyn, CEO of CityWest

“We’re thrilled to be partnering with the District of Mackenzie on this exciting project. As a company that was built in northern B.C., we’re excited to bring urban-class connectivity to another northern community. We look forward to working with your local government to bring you improved service experience for decades to come.”

 

Media Contacts:

Diane Smith
Chief Administrative Officer
District of Mackenzie
250-997-3221
Email

 

Scott Simpson
Senior Marketing Manager
CityWest
780-634-7207
Email