About

Clearwater County’s Broadband Internet project is underway, bringing reliable high-speed internet to our community! This project will increase connectivity and empower residents and businesses. Access to high-speed internet is an essential component of economic growth, education and social well-being. Fibre-optic internet is future-proof and will meet the demands of a modern society while reducing the digital divide for Clearwater County Residents. 

This project is funded through the Universal Broadband Fund, a Canadian federal initiative with additional support from the Alberta provincial government. The funding aims to bring reliable, high-speed internet to rural and underserved areas within the county.

Network Rollout

The rollout of Clearwater County’s internet plan will follow a phased approach, divided into five (5) stages. It will combine fibre-optic cable and wireless towers to provide high-speed internet connectivity throughout the county.

The network will operate as an Open Access platform—a shared infrastructure that allows multiple service providers to offer their services over the same fibre. This approach gives users the freedom to choose from various service providers and packages, which can lower costs for consumers and improve service quality. Open Access promotes competition, optimizes network resources, and ensures users have the power to select the services that best meet their needs.

As a community-owned network, the revenues generated will be reinvested locally, ensuring that ownership and control remain in the hands of Clearwater County residents. This self-sustaining model paves the way for business growth and improved services. Fibre-optic technology offers significant advantages, including high speeds, reliability, security, and scalability.

Community Engagement

Clearwater County will actively engage with residents to share project updates through various initiatives. Starting in spring 2025 (dates TBD), the County will host multiple Open Houses and virtual events for registered participants. Project milestones and updates will also be shared on the Project Status Page on this site, via social media, newspapers, and mailings to keep residents informed throughout the project.

Grant Funding

Thanks to the Broadband Committee's efforts, Clearwater County secured substantial grants from Innovation, Science, and Economic Development Canada and the Government of Alberta, covering up to 75% of the costs. The grants will aid in establishing a modern fibre network connecting homes and businesses to the County's Core Backbone, funded through the Universal Broadband Fund, with added assistance from the Alberta provincial government. This initiative aims to enhance connectivity by providing reliable, high-speed internet to rural and underserved areas in the county. 

For more information on the grants, please visit the official UBF project page here.