We would like to take a moment to provide everyone with an update regarding the provision of wireless high speed internet to the Golden area.   Several groups (entities) have been working diligently for most of this year to make this a reality. Golden Area Initiatives, the Columbia Basin Trust, the Town of Golden, Kicking Horse Mountain Resort and the Columbia Shuswap Regional District have all been involved in taking all of the necessary steps for a wireless  provider to begin broadcasting up and down the valley.

The biggest question is timing, what are the specific dates when it will be available. There are many outstanding variables that will impact the date and so to propose something specific right now would be counterproductive. However, we can confidently say that most of the hurdles are completed, agreements for access are either in place or will be shortly, equipment has been purchased, most broadcast locations are identified and ready (or will be ready shortly), final links to the internet have been applied for and the redundant link is in the process of being finalized for set up. There is still a lot to complete but once a few more steps are finished we will be able to provide a specific date when the network can go “live”.

 Fixed wireless internet has a proven track record of speed, stability and security. However, it is not a perfect system and there still may be some locations that will just not be physically able to get a connection. In many instances the Internet provider can set up small re-broadcast zones in difficult areas but some may still be inaccessible. Shortly, there will be coverage maps available showing computer modeling of where the various broadcast units will cover. The bowl-like shape of the valley is helpful and it is anticipated that well over 90% of the area will have coverage.

This is the first of several updates we will be providing as the timing for implementation gets closer. It will be well worth the wait.   

If you require further information or have any questions please contact Ron Oszust at rcoszust@persona.ca or call him at 250-344-5933.

~Submitted by

Ron Oszust

Rural Director, Area A, CSRD  

Douglas Stevens,

Davinci Broadband Inc.