In fall 2021, the Connected Coast project was launched with funding from the federal, provincial and regional governments. The aim is to bring high speed internet to rural and remote communities on the BC coast and the provincial government is the primary funding source.

In January, work began on remote Cortes Island by the CityWest group, with crews laying fiber optic cables throughout the community. Regional Manager Dino Tsakonas says phase one of the project is nearing completion. The goal is to have service to local homes and businesses by the end of 2022.

Tsakonas says challenges have included supply chain issues for needed materials, as well as finding enough workers for the job—along with housing for them—when local skilled workers are in short supply. Despite those challenges, he adds that the project is meeting deadlines and he’s pleased with the progress to date.

CKTZ News gets the latest on the project in the interview below with Dino Tsakonas: