By Regional District of Fraser-Fort George
The Regional District of Fraser-Fort George is working together with the District of Mackenzie, Village of McBride and Village of Valemount to get a better understanding of how Internet and cellular service within the region can be improved.
TANEx Engineering Corporation, a BC engineering consulting firm specializing in technology and communications, is carrying out the work.
The first step in the process is to identify the current state of connectivity and residents and business owners in the region are invited to participate in a survey to share what cell and Internet services are being used, where the service gaps are and where people would like to see service improved.
Surveys are 100% confidential and available online and in hard copy.
The online survey for residents is available here: www.surveymonkey.com/r/rdffg-res
The online survey for business operators is available here: www.surveymonkey.com/r/rdffg-bus
Hard copies of the surveys are available in the Mackenzie, McBride and Valemount municipal offices or by contacting the Regional District office at 1-800-667-1959.
People are invited to test the speed and quality of their Internet through this free, confidential link: performance.cira.ca/fraserfortgeorge. Following the surveys, TANEx will provide information to the regional district to set connectivity goals for region, identify gaps and provide a strategy for closing the digital divide.
The Regional District says closing the connectivity gap in our rural and remote areas is critical for not only the immediate need of keeping residents safe and able to participate in an online world but is critical in positioning this region as a viable place to live and do business.
There is currently no end date for the survey.
(Edited for clarity)
