Better cell service coming to Manitoulin Island

Manitoulin Island residents will soon have enhanced cellular and mobile broadband services thanks to an investment of $1,486,303 from the province's Northern Ontario Heritage Fund Corporation (NOHFC).

Under the NetCentral project, four new towers will be constructed to provide cellular and high-speed wireless broadband along Highways 551, 542 and 540 and to communities including Providence Bay, Evansville, Sheshegwaning First Nation, Zhiibaahaasing First Nation and Meldrum Bay.

NetCentral is a non-profit, community-based information and communications technology organization serving Greater Sudbury, Manitoulin Island, Sudbury East, West Nipissing, Elliot Lake, Chapleau and Parry Sound.

It identifies gaps in cellular, mobile broadband and information and communications technology services, and works with service providers to improve telecommunications services for northerners.

Investing in telecommunications is part of the government's plan to build Ontario up, a press release said.

The four-part plan includes investing in people's talents and skills, making the largest investment in public infrastructure in Ontario's history, creating a dynamic, innovative environment where business thrives, and building a secure retirement savings plan.

“I am pleased that our government is helping Manitoulin communities stay connected by improving cellular and broadband service. This will create new economic opportunities and social benefits for businesses and families in the North,” said NOHFC chair and Minister of Northern Development and Mines Michael Gravelle, in a press release.

“The addition of these four cell sites helps ensure that Manitoulin Island residents have access to high-speed telecommunication services,” said Jim Gordon, founding chair of NetCentral. “I commend the NOHFC for its commitment to extend telecommunications services in the North.”