A new fibre-optic network has reached Tahltan Territory, bringing high-speed internet to one of British Columbia’s most remote areas along Highway 37.The $13-million project is a significant achievement in the region, with implications for healthcare, education and economic development.
“The arrival of this state-of-the-art fibre-optic network in Tahltan Territory marks a transformative milestone for Tahltan communities,” said Todd den Engelsen, CEO of the Tahltan Nation Development Corporation (TNDC). “By enhancing connectivity, we are not just laying cables; we are building bridges to a future where improved healthcare, safety, education and social services thrive.”
Led by Tahltan Communications, a partnership between the TNDC and CityWest Cable and Telephone Corporation, the project spans over 200 kilometres of new fibre optic cabling, supplemented by BC Hydro’s Northwest Transmission Line. The network will provide fibre-optic services to the communities of Iskut and Dease Lake, along with several industrial clients.
Key institutions, including the TNDC, Tahltan Central Government, Iskut Band Office, Klappan School, and regional healthcare centres, are now linked to the network as anchor tenants. Industrial operations, such as Newmont’s Red Chris and Brucejack mines, also stand to benefit from the infrastructure.
The federal government contributed $9.6 million to the project through its Connect to Innovate Program, aiming to connect all Canadian communities with high speed internet access by 2030. Provincially, the Connecting B.C. initiative also contributed to the program. Construction began in May 2022.
Iskut Band Chief Marie Quock emphasized the importance of the network. “The fibre optics will transform our community of Iskut, powering seamless and reliable virtual meetings for our staff, enhancing healthcare access for our members through telemedicine, enriching education opportunities including lifelong learning initiatives, and ensuring critical cell service along Highway 37 for the safety of all who live and travel through Tahltan Territory,” she said.
Progress on connecting homes and businesses is ongoing in Iskut and Dease Lake. In Iskut, "last mile" cabling for residences began in September, with service expected to launch in early 2025. Residents and businesses can contact City West for service plans. Dease Lake’s final phase continues, with updates to follow as permits are finalized.
The network also has the potential to support public safety initiatives, addressing a long-standing concern over the 1,000-km cellular dead zone along Hwy. 37. While Tahltan Communications itself is not currently spearheading any projects for public access, Provincial Hwy 37 investments totalling $195 million, announced in July, included plans for expanded Wi-Fi access at strategic pullouts.
