Connected Elgin

The need to improve high-speed internet connectivity throughout Elgin County was identified as a key priority in Elgin County Council’s Strategic Plan 2020-2022. As such a committee was formed to begin the conversation on how best to address the under and un-serviced areas of the County.

The goal of the committee is to address four primary challenges:

Availability: Many areas of Elgin County lack any form of connectivity. Providing households with access to the internet is key to providing opportunities such as employment, education, e-commerce and entertainment

Affordability: Households in areas of Elgin County struggle to afford the monthly costs of internet services available to them. Affordable connectivity is critical for users to be able to use the internet service that support the required applications and online services they depend on.

Speed: Lack of high-speed internet creates barriers for residents working from home, schooling from home and gaining access to services such as banking, news and entertainment. Businesses without access to high-speed internet face challenges that inhibit economic growth and online opportunities that would otherwise be available to them.

Awareness: Providing a mechanism for education and learning is key for residents to make good decisions and get the most out of their digital experience.

The County engaged a consulting firm to provide an analysis of current state and provide recommendations for future state.

Input from the community regarding current internet access, usage and feasibility provides a holistic view of the current situation and allows for attention to be focused on areas of greatest concern. Public involvement and participation are key to the success of this project and will ensure that The County continues to focus on addressing the needs of the community.