12/18/09 - The Township of North Frontenac announced that, subject to funding and approvals it has awarded a network expansion contract to OmniGlobe Networks to enhance broadband infrastructure and access in the community. The company, selected after a rigorous, technology neutral, competitive bidding process, will construct, own and operate a fixed wireless network to provide additional coverage in previously under-served areas of the region.

As part of the project, OmniGlobe will work with Township representatives to increase its existing wireless service coverage and accelerate the delivery of high-speed Internet to residents, businesses and educators. The new service will be delivered by the OmniGlobe Broadband division and will be available in spring 2010.

"This announcement is the culmination of months of hard work, and we are looking forward to offering broadband access to the residents of North Frontenac" said Nigel Maund, OmniGlobe Networks VP of Broadband and Satellite Services. "The planned network coverage expansion will create new and exciting opportunities for local residents and businesses and foster continued economic growth in the region."

High-speed Internet access will be available in the hamlets of Ardoch, Myers Cave, Cloyne as well as surrounding areas including the Mazinaw, Mississagagon, Kashwakamak, Shabomeka and Marble lakes. However, due to dense tree foliage and terrain variation, not all residents will be able to receive the wireless signal.

The fixed wireless network will expand on existing infrastructure that Omniglobe, in conjunction with Utilities Kingston, deployed in 2007 to provide service in the hamlets of Plevna, Cloyne, Godfrey and Mountain Grove.

The project scope has been modified as a result of OmniGlobe's decision to deploy infrastructure and service more slowly and cautiously under current economic conditions and in light of the general decline in consumer spending in 2009. However, the company plans to embark on a second phase in the summer of 2010 to further expand coverage, as market conditions improve with a forecast recovery. "We are still committed to serving the remaining region", explained Maund "and we will continue to work with the Township to identify and fill broadband gaps in the community."

Other programs are also being pursued by the Township of North Frontenac, to bring High Speed Internet to the balance of the Township.