There is finally cellular coverage along Highway 3 between Hope and Princeton, in British Columbia, as Telus recently launched wireless coverage for travellers.
The perilous stretch of highway, which is winding along steep cliff edges, previously had no signals at all, and residents and travellers have long requested this area between Hope and Princeton gain coverage. When accidents happened in the area, many would have to drive to gain access to wireless coverage to call first responders.
But that has since changed, as Telus recently installed micro-cells in the Sunshine Valley, Manning Park and the East Gate community, according to Manning Park Resort’s website, which provides short-range cellular coverage along highway from Hope to Princeton.
Vern Schram, General Manager of Manning Park Resort, said “We are supportive of bringing cell service along the highway, as many people have safety concerns about driving Highway #3. We are hoping that this will alleviate apprehensions about driving it, because it really is a beautiful, scenic route to take to get to Manning Park Resort.”
“We’re estimating that it reaches about 500m on either side of the highway around the Resort,” added Schram, which is known for allowing travellers to ‘unplug’ and disconnect from their phones.
As for coverage, it is not expected to reach past the highway corridor, so drivers are urged to still slow down and remain vigilant along the backcountry of E.C. Manning Park, as there is no cell coverage for emergencies.
Other improvements in the area include re-paving from Sumallo Flats to Allison Pass on Highway 3, which is near completion.
Telus signed a 10-year Connecting British Columbia agreement back in 2011 to bring cellular coverage to various highways in the province, which was completed back in 2016, according to the company, adding 1,700 kilometres of new coverage to highways.
Thanks Kris!
