Increased cell coverage is coming to the Highway of Tears.
Today (Wednesday) Rogers Communications broke ground on its first of 12 new towers that will provide upgraded service along Highway 16 between Prince George and Prince Rupert.
The project will provide over 250 kilometres worth of new coverage, closing any gaps the corridor faced previously while establishing a safer travel environment.
“It means the world to me and our women to connect with others and keep in touch, especially on this highway – anything can happen at any given time,” said Gladys Radek, Murdered and Missing Indigenous Women and Girls (MMIWG) activist.
“This tower and project will bring a lifeline to all of us who travel along Highway 16 regularly and will bring a sense of safety and security that will help us prevent future tragedies.”
This was one of the 33 recommendations made during the 2006 Highway of Tears Symposium report to improve the well-being of Indigenous women and girls.
Rogers will provide coverage to three provincial highway rest stops in the northwest part of the province, which includes Boulder Creek, Sanderson Point, and Basalt Creek.
“Cellular connectivity on our highways is essential to improve safety and emergency response when people need assistance. As a local resident and frequent traveller on Highway 16, I know how important this project is for people living, working, and travelling along this route,” said Jennifer Rice, Parliamentary Secretary for Emergency Preparedness and MLA for North Coast.