Fiber optic internet service is now up and running in various areas from Balfour to Kaslo. The Columbia Basin Trust and Kaslo infoNet Society developed the service with financial help from the Province. Dave Lampron with the Columbia Basin Broadband Corporation says it was a unique project – creating submarine fiber optic cables to run in Kootenay Lake.
Lampron says the cable went into the lake in November, and service started in March.
Lampron feels good internet service is vital for tourism, health care, education, and other community needs. He hopes to see other areas able to receive better service.
Lampron says it provides the same quality internet you’d receive in big cities. He’s heard some great feedback from the Kalso Hotel in particular.
The connection from Balfour to Kalso cost about $850,000.