(Photo credit: Jacob Miller, Shaunavon Standard)
Shaunavon, SK – Access Communications Co-operative is bringing internet download speeds as fast as 450 Mbps, a nearly fifty-fold improvement, to Shaunavon and Macklin. The projects are funded in part by the Government of Canada’s Universal Broadband Fund.
“To the communities of Shaunavon and Macklin, we say ‘we’ve heard you,’” said Jim Deane, CEO of Access Communications. “The need for reliable highspeed connectivity has never been greater, and these network upgrades help bridge the rural-urban digital divide. This is a leap in technology, and proven one, having been deployed elsewhere in the province.”
The new AccessHyperSpeed services launched in Shaunavon on February 17, with Macklin to follow on March 15. The projects are funded through Innovation, Science, and Economic Development Canada’s Universal Broadband Fund (UBF). The estimated cost for both communities is over $730,000, with UBF funding covering $528,909. To learn more about UBF, visit www.ic.gc.ca.
“This upgrade is great news for our community as we are constantly looking for ways Shaunavon can offer a competitive edge,” said Mayor Kyle Bennett, Town of Shaunavon. “This upgrade means more people have the ability to work or attend school from home, take part in virtual meetings, carry out business operations, and so much more without disruption in services. We are excited and proud that Access believes in the future of Shaunavon.”
“The Town of Macklin is excited to see Access Communications expand the availability of high-speed internet within our community,” said Mayor Stephen Lowe, Town of Macklin. “We live and work in a fast-changing technological society. Access to reliable internet services is a requirement for our families and businesses. For rural communities, the internet is an equalizing factor towards attracting and retaining businesses and the families that support them.
Access delivers 300 Mbps download speeds to over 100 communities, exceeding the federal government’s recommended minimum of 50 Mbps download speeds. In December, Access launched its HyperSpeed 1 Gig service in the Battlefords, with more communities scheduled over the next few months. To learn about AccessInternet services, visit myaccess.ca.
About Access Communications Co-operative
Access Communications Co-operative began serving customers in 1978 and has grown into one of Saskatchewan’s largest telecommunications companies. We deliver exceptional communications and entertainment services to over 235 communities and 170,000 square kilometres of rural areas across our province. As a community-owned, not-for-profit co-operative, our commitment to the community goes beyond providing internet, television, phone, and security services. We dedicate 100% of our earnings to improving the quality of life in the communities and rural areas where we live and do business, primarily through our AccessNow TV community channels, corporate initiatives and fundraising events, and our Children’s Fund charity. Visit myaccess.ca for more information.