CRadvantage streams ahead, more high speed internet available for local businesses downtown
The City of Campbell River has expanded Vancouver Island’s first open-access fibre optic municipal broadband network, CRadvantage. The network extension was completed along 11th Avenue to the corner of Dogwood Street and 12th Avenue on July 29.
CRadvantage provides affordable, high speed connectivity to support growth in the technology sector and allows local businesses to compete internationally.
“This open-access network allows internet service providers to lease access to the network and provide a variety of broadband internet services to integrated buildings and clients,”. states Warren Kalyn, the City’s information technology manager. “The business model encourages the development of free market competition by allowing telecommunication and wholesale service providers open access to the City’s broadband network while providing cost-effective internet access and a variety of service options previously unavailable within our community.”
“Technology continues to be a key economic driver for the City of Campbell River,” adds Rose Klukas, the City’s economic development officer. “The worldwide impact of the COVID-19 crisis has clearly identified the essential requirement for affordable access to high speed internet services, allowing businesses to remain viable in the global economy as they pivot to e-commerce platforms and increase their online presence.”
Klukas adds, “The City and community partners support the on-going development of CRadvantage municipal broadband network as a model technology initiative that represents Campbell River’s commitment to technology and economic development in the downtown core.”
The City of Campbell River completed the first phase of CRadvantage municipal broadband network in November 2017. Future network expansion is planned for strategic downtown locations and will be implemented as budget allows.
Visit cradvantage.com for more detail on this economic development initiative.