(London, ON) April 25, 2024 – SWIFT is pleased to announce the successful completion of its broadband expansion project in London, achieved in partnership with North Frontenac Telephone Company (NFTC). This initiative, aimed at enhancing high-speed internet access in the South-end of the City, is now providing service to 577 previously underserved homes and businesses.
“This achievement underscores our commitment to closing the digital divide and empowering communities with vital broadband infrastructure in areas crucial for London’s economic development,” said Barry Field, Executive Director, SWIFT. “In collaboration with our municipal partners and NFTC, we are pleased to deliver improved and enhanced broadband services to underserved areas in London. This initiative not only supports economic growth but also fosters a digitally inclusive Southwestern Ontario, paving the way for future development.”
With a total investment of $2.6 million, including $1.6 million in funding contributions from SWIFT’s municipal partners, including the City of London, and an additional $1 million committed by NFTC, the project utilized a blend of fibre and wireless technologies to provide service to previously underserved areas within the City. These areas include portions of Colonel Talbot Road, Decker Drive, Westminster Drive, Wellington Road South, Glenworth Drive, Dingman Drive, Avenue Road, and the surrounding area.
“Broadband internet is an important infrastructure for the local economy and for the improved quality of life for Londoners,” says Mat Daley, Director of Information Technology Services with the City of London. “We are pleased that the completion of the broadband expansion project in London means more residents now have access to reliable high-speed internet and easier access to the digital world.”
The successful completion of this project highlights SWIFT’s commitment to closing the digital divide, fostering economic growth, and enhancing the quality of life for residents and businesses not only in the City of London and its surrounding areas but also throughout Southwestern Ontario.
For additional information about SWIFT and its broadband expansion plans, please visit www.swiftruralbroadband.ca.
Quick Facts:
- SWIFT utilized $1.6 million in funding contributions from member municipalities, including investments from the City of London, to facilitate the expansion of broadband services within the community.
- The region benefited from a total of $2.6 million in broadband upgrades, including $1 million investment from NFTC, as part of the SWIFT program.
- Through SWIFT’s $276 million regional broadband expansion plan, nearly 67,000 previously underserved homes and businesses throughout Southwestern Ontario will be provided with access to high-speed internet service, including 577 homes and businesses in the City of London.
About SWIFT
Southwestern Integrated Fibre Technology (SWIFT) is a non-profit regional broadband project initiated by the Western Ontario Wardens’ Caucus to subsidize the construction of high-speed broadband networks across Southwestern Ontario, Caledon and the Niagara Region.
Media Contact:
Melissa O’Brien
[email protected]
Manager, Communications and Stakeholder Relations
Southwestern Integrated Fibre Technology
226.256.1640
