SaskTel is making progress bringing wireless networks to rural areas, including ones around Lloydminster. SaskTel has now launched small cell site solutions in 31 communities and is on track to reach 50 communities by early April.
Waseca, Mervin, Meota and Marsden are some of many communities across the province to receive small cell site tower builds. This comes as part of the Saskatchewan Government’s Wireless Saskatchewan initiative to improve wireless and internet coverage in rural areas. Michelle Englot, a spokesperson for SaskTel, says the initiative is about improving the much-needed wireless coverage in rural communities.
“The government of Saskatchewan SaskTel do understand that having access to advanced and reliable communications services is increasingly important to rural areas, and this initiative demonstrates that,” says Englot.
The rural areas selected are getting these small site builds to improve fringe or very little network coverage to fill in any gaps left. The province estimates these improvements may reach 20,000 customers that previously had fringe coverage at best. Currently, the towers have been constructed and the province must now ensure they’re optimized and integrated into the network before they go live.
After these towers are finished, 41 more will be constructed to begin the second phase of the initiative, with more sites to be announced. Minister Responsible for SaskTel Don Morgan says the Wireless Saskatchewan initiative will improve the lives of rural residents.
“Our government is committed to ensuring rural Saskatchewan residents, farms, and businesses receive fast and reliable communications services in order to thrive in today’s digital world. SaskTel’s continued investment in its networks will enable the company to deploy innovative solutions to improve cellular service in rural areas across the province,” says Morgan.