Woodlands County is welcoming the successful award of $16.5 million in funding through the Universal Broadband Fund Plus (UBFP).
It’s a collaboration between the federal and provincial governments with each contributing equally, to Whitecourt Communications to support the expansion of fibre-optic broadband internet to more than 470 identified households within the county.
Officials note, the Alberta Broadband Fund is a $100 million provincial initiative that supports the Alberta Broadband Strategy, with the goal of ensuring all rural, remote, and Indigenous households in Alberta have access to high-speed internet (50/10 Mbps) by the end of the 2026–27 fiscal year.
Curtis Brownlee, co-owner of Whitecourt Communications, highlighted the importance of the local partnership.
“Having been in business for more than 50 years, including 30 years in Whitecourt, we’re proud to deliver reliable telecommunications services to our community. This funding allows us to extend
sustainable, long-term internet infrastructure to even more residents.”
(left to right): Curtis Brownlee, Owner and Operator of Whitecourt Communications, and Woodlands County Reeve Dave Kusch in front of the Whitecourt Communications office. (Supplied)
Reeve Dave Kusch said the project marks an important step forward for the region.
“It’s been a long-term goal of Woodlands County council to bring critical internet infrastructure to all our residents. This funding and partnership with Whitecourt Communications is a major milestone in achieving that objective.”
Using Alberta Broadband Fund and CIRA mapping criteria, officials say the project will provide fibre-optic broadband service to more than 470 identified households.
Residents are encouraged to contact Whitecourt Communications directly to determine eligibility and learn more about service availability.
