Telus has announced this morning there is now wireless coverage along Highway 16 between Prince Rupert and Terrace, part of a $1 million investment in a new cell site in the area, which saw construction start last December.
According to Telus, the new cellular coverage brings connectivity to over 20 kilometres of the highway, with the new cell site located roughly 60 kilometres west of Terrace. There is now over 70 per cent coverage of Highway 16 between Prince Rupert and Prince George, says Telus.
“Without question, all Canadians should have access to the transformative benefits of wireless connectivity, including the tools and resources to connect them to the people and information that matter most in their lives,” said Darren Entwistle, TELUS President and CEO.
New connectivity will make Highway 16 safer if people need to make calls during dangerous winter conditions.
“I often travel along Highway 16 for work or to visit friends and family. It is a stunning stretch of road, but sadly one that is associated with grief, tragedy and loss – especially with regard to Indigenous women and girls,” said Jennifer Rice, MLA for North Coast and Parliamentary Secretary for Emergency Preparedness, in a statement. “Expanding cellular communication along provincial highways improves safety by giving people the ability to ask for help if there’s an emergency, to access GPS to find their way, or to place a call to check in with loved ones.”
Telus yesterday announced 4G LTE wireless launched in Tahsis and Gold River on Vancouver Island.
