Bell and Rogers are investing in better wireless coverage around Orillia, Ontario, with upgrades targeting busy highways, residential neighbourhoods and rural areas where cellphone service can be unreliable.
Bell plans to add four more wireless sites over the next two years, focusing on Highway 11 and communities north of Orillia. One proposal involves a new 55-metre tower at 375 Westmount Drive, while three other locations are still being planned.
The expansion is part of Bell’s broader push to improve 5G coverage across 224 Canadian communities in 2026.
According to OrilliaMatters, Bell recently activated new 4G and 5G equipment at an existing 44-metre tower near The Narrows on October 5.
“One key reason we built that one in that area is to support commuter traffic on Highway 12,” said Tod Madden, Bell’s director of network infrastructure.
The upgrade should improve call quality and mobile data speeds while reducing congestion on nearby towers. Bell also upgraded equipment at Panoramic Point condominiums in September 2025.
Meanwhile, Rogers says it has built or upgraded more than 30 wireless sites across Orillia and surrounding communities over the past five years, including downtown and along Highway 11.
“We know how important it is for residents and visitors in Orillia to stay connected,” Rogers told OrilliaMatters.
Rogers has been expanding coverage elsewhere in Ontario, including a $300 million project addressing wireless gaps in eastern Ontario.
For local customers and highway travellers, the investments aim to deliver stronger reception, fewer dropped calls and more reliable mobile internet.
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