A major telecommunications provider wants to expand its reach and improve cellular coverage for those cruising a major Vancouver Island corridor.
Rogers has announced its plans to build six new towers along Highway 4, the only direct stretch of road connecting people from Port Alberni to Tofino and Ucluelet and vice-versa.
The project, fully funded by Rogers, also looks to upgrade two existing towers in the area, ultimately enhancing cellular coverage for tourists and locals alike.
Jorge Fernandes, Chief Technology Officer at Rogers Communications, finds Highway 4 is a vital route and notes the project will provide 85 km of new service, “improving safety and reliable connectivity as soon as possible for all who depend on it.”
The company partnered with the BC Government through the Connecting British Columbia program to bring the project to fruition.
Mid Island-Pacific Rim MLA Josie Osborne is ecstatic as she points to much-needed safety benefits.
“For people travelling between Tofino and Port Alberni, whether they’re locals, people visiting family, or those here to enjoy the beauty of the West Coast, Highway 4 can be cause for concern,” added Osborne.
“Our government is hard at work making safety improvements to the highway and increasing cellular coverage along the same stretch, meaning people will be even safer.”
There’s no word on when the improved service will be made available.
