Beaver County - Residents of Beaver County will benefit from joint federal and provincial funding to upgrade county-wide broadband internet service, announced today by Leon Benoit, MP and Service Alberta Minister, Heather Klimchuk. This project is just one example of the commitment of both governments to strengthen, the economy create jobs and improving the quality of life for its residents. 

“This project will enhance local facilities and services and create local jobs, at a time when the need for economic stimulus is greatest,” stated Benoit. “Furthermore, this money is made available at a time when costs are lower and people are there to do the job.”

The governments of Canada and Alberta will each invest up to $181,444.00 in the project. Beaver County will contribute the balance of the total eligible project cost of up to $544,332.00.

"Connecting Albertans who live in rural areas to broadband internet is so important. Through the Alberta SuperNet, our province is already one of the most connected jurisdictions in the world and this project in Beaver County will take us even further. The county should be commended for its vision and hard work in turning this idea into reality," said Heather Klimchuk, Service Alberta Minister and MLA for Edmonton-Glenora.

“We applaud the federal and provincial governments for their commitment to rural Albertans and Canadians during these tough economic times,” said Beaver County Reeve, Jim Kallal. “The funding will help to ensure that County residents have access to quality broadband service in the long term and it is much appreciated.” 

This project is one of more than 73 across the province that will get underway quickly, thanks to a joint federal-provincial investment of more than $227 million announced on May 21. The governments of Canada and Alberta have taken steps to advance projects and flow money faster for targeted infrastructure projects in Alberta communities in the 2009 and 2010 construction seasons.

For more information on the Building Canada plan, visit www.buildingcanada.gc.ca.