New Westminster —The City of New Westminster’s own open-access fibre network, BridgeNet, continues to connect New West, enabling high-speed internet service choices for residents and businesses.  BridgeNet is currently in its third year of construction with on-net ready access to 12 commercial locations and 28 residential buildings, with many residents and local businesses already enjoying the benefits of fibre internet services. 

“I’m proud of the progress that has been made on BridgeNet, as it is the foundation of our Intelligent New West strategy,” said Mayor Jonathan X. Coté. “Our long-term goal is to ensure local businesses and residents can access the benefits of a growing digital economy.”

Forty-five additional multi-dwelling unit residential locations are near-net ready, with both Douglas College locations in New Westminster and the Justice Institute of BC already connected to the fibre network.  In addition, co-location facilities are being expanded for future internet service provider (ISP) capacity. Currently, several ISPs have signed agreements with the City, the latest being Shaw Communications, Tech Futures, Zayo, and Astute Internet.

Affordable access to broadband connectivity is critical for facilitating local business growth, innovation, and productivity.

"Having access to gigabit internet speeds has been transformational for our media production business,” said Paul Romein, CEO of Techno Monkey Media Inc. “We are developing and deploying technologies that use powerful infrastructure in the cloud, which enables us to grow our business across Canada."

BridgeNet relies on partner ISPs to sell internet and broadband services to residential buildings, businesses, and institutions. Construction will continue throughout 2019, with several more locations throughout the city expected to join the network.

Visit www.bridgenetnw.ca to learn more.

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Media Contact:

Blair Fryer, Economic Development and Communications Manager
City of New Westminster
or 604-527-4688