Lumby Gets Internet Funding

Written by Peter McIntyre 107.5 KISSFM Thursday, 17 April 2014 13:07

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200-thousand dollars is being spent to improve Internet service in the rural Lumby area. BC's Technology Minister Andrew Wilkinson says improving online service will give residents better access to government services, economic development as well as health and educational resources. The funding is a partnership between the province and regional district, and includes a grant of $50,000 from the Southern Interior Development Initiative Trust. When added to earlier funding that has allowed nearby Cherryville to improve its Internet infrastructure, it puts the investment into area connectivity at $450,000. Willkenson says 93% of British Columbians currently have access to high-speed Internet, and their goal is to get that to 100% by 2021. Rick Fairbairn, Area E director for the Regional District of North Okanagan, says the funding will complement the service already provided in neighboring communities. "I know local residents and businesses are looking forward to the wide range of services and information that will now be available," says Fairbairn. Eric Foster, MLA for Vernon-Monashee, is pleased the government was able to respond to the need. "I know that expanded high-speed Internet access will bring benefits to families and businesses in this region," says Foster.