A telecommunication company, Alberta Broadband Networks (A-NET), is investing $75 million to build a fibre optics network in Sherwood Park.

About

This project is fully owned, funded and managed by A-NET.

A fibre optics network increases internet speed and reliability. It will allow for residents to have better access to online content including educational opportunities, and promote economic growth for the area.

Fibre optics can also improve cellular performance. A reliable fibre optic network, such as A-NET’s, can help improve the connectivity between cellular towers, improving the performance of phone apps that use cellular data.

Read A-NET's media release to learn more about the project:

Alberta Broadband Networks - Media Release (151.7 KB)

Construction and restoration

Construction of the fibre optic network in Sherwood Park is substantially complete. Remaining work is primarily limited to restoration of disturbed areas, deficiency repairs, and warranty-related work.

Most construction activity occurred within the road right-of-way adjacent to homes and businesses. The right-of-way typically extends approximately three to four metres into a front yard, although the width can vary depending on location.

Restoration work is ongoing and may continue after construction activities have been completed. Restoration timelines can be affected by weather conditions, seasonal constraints, contractor scheduling, and the need to monitor repairs through a warranty period.

Strathcona County’s role

Broadband is federally regulated by the Canadian Radio-television and Telecommunications Commission (CRTC). As a municipality, we are obligated under federal regulations to facilitate the installation of this critical infrastructure, owned and constructed by A-NET.

In this case, our role is to ensure safe and efficient management of our lands and rights-of-ways through permitting.

Reliable internet is an identified need in our community

While internet networks are not within municipal jurisdiction, we are committed to finding ways to address the challenges facing our community's internet infrastructure.

This includes advocacy at federal and provincial levels for investment in internet connectivity in our community.

Reliable internet connectivity is crucial for living, working and playing in the modern world.

Improvement to internet service in Strathcona County is an identified need, particularly for rural and commercial/industrial areas. We heard this through public engagement held in 2020 with both businesses and residents.

Strathcona County welcomes all improvements to internet connectivity in our community.