[Huron County, Ontario] – The County of Huron is pleased to share that Southwestern Integrated Fibre Technology (SWIFT) has released a Request for Proposals (RFP) for $7.2 million to expand broadband access in Huron County. This project will build on preexisting broadband infrastructure in the County and greatly improve these assets, resulting in stronger internet connectivity for eligible areas throughout Huron County.
SWIFT is a non-profit regional broadband project initiated by the Western Ontario Wardens’ Caucus (WOWC) to subsidize the construction of high-speed broadband networks across Southwestern Ontario. The County of Huron is a proud member of WOWC and applauds its commitment of continuing advocacy work for broadband connectivity in Huron County and surrounding regions.
“During these uncertain times, we’re seeing more than ever how quality internet access is critical for business operations and community connections and how reliant we really are on this infrastructure,” says Warden Jim Ginn. “While there is still much work to be done and the process will take time, the release of this RFP to improve broadband in Huron County is a step towards bettering high speed internet service for our communities.”
The County of Huron, in partnership with WOWC and SWIFT, remains dedicated to working together and improving broadband solutions for Huron County. For more information on this announcement, please visit swiftruralbroadband.ca/newsroom.
Quick Facts:
- Western Ontario Wardens’ Caucus Inc. (WOWC) is a not-for-profit organization representing 15 upper and single tier municipalities in southwestern Ontario with more than three million residents.
- Southwestern Integrated Fibre Technology (SWIFT) is a non-profit municipally-led broadband expansion project created to improve internet connectivity in underserved communities and rural areas across Southwestern Ontario.
- SWIFT is currently overseeing a $209 million Southwestern Ontario broadband expansion plan that will connect 22% of the region’s underserved premises over the next 3 years.
- The Government of Ontario and Canada have committed up to $63.7 million each to support SWIFT. The project also leverages additional funding from municipal partners and private sector investors.
- Operating on a cost sharing basis, SWIFT will leverage federal and provincial funding to subsidize up to a maximum of 2/3 of the eligible costs for awarded projects to deliver reliable internet to more people living in Huron County.
- As part of its expansion plan, SWIFT has issued a Request for Proposals (RFP) for $7.2 million to expand broadband infrastructure in Huron County. Contracts will be awarded, and service provider agreements will be put in place shortly after the RFP closes on December 4, 2020.