On Wednesday, May 26, 2021, the Honourable Maryam Monsef, federal Minister for Women and Gender Equality and Rural Economic Development, announced over $6-million in federal funding for Bell, Cogeco Connexion and Lakeland Networks. These investments will bring high-speed Internet to rural residents in central and eastern Ontario.
Specifically, $1.6-million has been announced to support Cogeco Connexion to bring high-speed Internet to 502 Cramahe Township homes. These “shovel-ready” projects are expected to be completed by year-end 2021 or the first of 2022.
There are two broadband expansion programs in Cramahe Township.
• The first targets underserved premises in the communities of: Salem, Little Lake, Tubbs Corners, Greenleys Corners and Castleton (see attached Map 1). In total, the project will cost approximately $2.1-million with federal ISED Rapid Response funding of $1.6-million.
• The second project targets a portions of Cramahe Township south of Colborne and westward to Lakeport, extending into neighbouring Alnwick-Haldimand Township (see attached Map 2). This project will cost approximately $500,000 with ISED funding of $358,000.
“For Cramahe Township, this is a very exciting and confirming announcement,” Cramahe Township Mayor Mandy Martin says.
“As a smaller municipality, we’re often overlooked for investment because of our lower population numbers. BUT — here’s why it makes sense to invest in us: because we’re smaller, we adapt quickly, we’re innovative self-starters. We’ve had to be for over 225 years.
“I predict this investment in broadband connection is going to pay back big. Canada is now tapping some of the most creative, independent problem-solvers you’re likely to meet.
“Cramahe Township thanks Minister Monsef, Cogeco Connexion and all those working behind the scenes to bring this collaborative project to fruition. Get ready for Cramahe’s contribution to the Canadian economy!”