Telus workers gathered in Salmon Arm Thursday to mark the conclusion of the first phase of the installation of a fibre optic network in the city and the impact for future community growth.
“We want to say thank you to our customers, the citizens and the city for allowing the infrastructure build. Salmon Arm now is one of a select few of the most up-to-date connected communities in North America,” said Tony Geheran, Telus senior vice-president. “A reliable, fast transfer system like this one really changes the playing field in terms of what citizens, businesses and the city can do for development both outward and inward.”
Barley Station Brew Pub owner Stu Bradford was also on hand, and he noted the impact the network has had on improving the speed of his point-of-sale terminals and in the potential to draw more business to the community.
“I see this as a huge investment in the long-term future of our town, especially in terms of attracting more industrial and tech businesses to relocate in our area. Now Salmon Arm can be on the front line of recruiting tech into our town because we have this advantage. And more business in town means more business for the pub,” he says with a smile. “It’s a snowball effect to all types of business.”
While the influx of Telus work trucks into the community, is mostly over, work is still ongoing. The initial physical installation of fibre optics has been completed for the designated areas of Salmon Arm, although Geheran notes Telus is still working on connecting multiple-unit dwellings, like apartments or commercial buildings with more than one business inside.
“We are really pleased with the progress and that the municipality saw the value in this. We appreciate their collaboration and support in getting this build done as efficiently as possible,” he adds.