Let's Talk Internet
The importance of a high speed internet connection to rural residents can be seen as a basic utility; one that drives drives development in rural economies and acts as an important attraction tool. It is one of the Township's initiatives to reduce the digital divide and provide residents access to broadband services as they continue to work, learn and connect at home.
The Canadian Radio-television and Telecommunications Commission (CRTC) declared that high-speed internet is now a basic service and established a universal service objective that Canadians (in rural and remote areas to those in urban centres) have access to broad internet services.
Current Initiatives
Xplornet Communications Inc.
The Township of Ramara and Xplornet Communications Inc. entered into a Private-Public partnership as the first step in enhancing internet services for Ramara.
As part of the project, three new wireless sites were constructed along with upgrades to five existing tower sites. All of this work was completed as a result of the one-time Modernization Transfer from the Province of Ontario to modernize and improve the way services are provided to the community.
To access the Xplornet Communications Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ), timelines and contact information, please visit www.ramara.ca/internet/.
SWIFT Program
Southwestern Integrated Fibre Technology (SWIFT) is a non-profit municipally-led broadband expansion project created to improve internet connectivity in underserved communities. Learn more about funding announcements, mapping, survey and more at www.ramara.ca/internet/.
ICON Fund
Improving Connectivity for Ontario (ICON) program is Ontario's new investment program that is investing $150M to improve broadband and cellular coverage in underserved and unserved communities.
Internet Speed Test
The Township has partnered with the Canadian Internet Registration Authority (CIRA) to collect the most detailed information relating to internet speeds accessed by local residents and businesses. Residents and businesses can access CIRA's Internet Performance Test on any device without needing to download any additional applications. Learn more about the internet speed test at www.ramara.ca/internet/.
INTERNET UPDATE
The Township of Ramara posted a Negotiated Request for Proposal (NRFP) on March 26th for broadband services in Ramara. The Township received two proposals: one from Muskoka Wifi and one from Rogers/Ruralwave. The tenders identified various fibre and wireless options to provide connectivity to approximately 764 homes, costing for each option, plans and timelines and future connectivity plans. Committee approved to accept the report as information and that staff will provide a report in June on results and recommendations from the NRFP as well as any funding that is announced from the Improving Connectivity for Ontario fund.
As we learn more and do more on the issue of advancing rural broadband, this page will be updated. Remember to subscribe to our internet page on the website at www.ramara.ca/internet/ and click the 'Subscribe to this page' button at the bottom of the page.