Frequently Asked Questions and Answers

Answer: The Clearwater County Broadband Project was created to bring high-speed fibre internet to homes and businesses across the county. Fibre internet is built on a future-proof technology designed to provide fast and reliable internet for years to come. 

Answer: Private providers often cannot justify the financial costs of building in rural or low-density areas. The County’s involvement helps ensure long-term, reliable connectivity for residents and businesses. Clearwater County has been studying how to improve the availability and quality of internet access for more than two decades. To view the historical background of this project, please click [insert 3-page historical background pdf].

Answer: Yes – the fibre network is owned by Clearwater County. Owning the network helps keep the infrastructure local and allows multiple internet providers to use the same network – ensuring residents and businesses can choose from the provider and package that is perfect for them.

Answer: No – the county does not sell internet service. Internet service will be offered by independent internet service providers (ISPs) that have partnered with the County on this project.

Answer: Yes – the County is working with multiple ISPs to give residents and businesses, the ability to choose their provider. Provider information will be shared as agreements are finalized.

Answer: No – participation is optional. Residents and businesses can choose whether they want to have their property connected.

Answer: Community participation helps justify investment and provide insight towards future expansion. Interest directly supports the project’s success.

Answer: The project is built in phases based on funding requirements, construction logistics, and technical feasibility. Funding was granted based primarily on areas that did not meet the Canadian minimum service level for internet (50Mbps upload and 10Mbps download). This project is designed to build to those areas first, and then to possibly expand to areas that already meet the Canadian requirements.

Answer: If you are in an area that isn’t ready yet, that doesn’t mean fibre won’t be coming to you. We encourage you to complete a survey to express your interest. This will help inform the Clearwater County Broadband Committee of your Interest – Take Survey

Answer: No – the project is being built in phases, based on funding requirements, construction logistics and technical feasibility.

Answer: You can enter your address at Project Status to see what stage of the project your area is in.

Answer: Fibre Connect is the process of connecting your home or business directly to the County’s fibre network. This connection allows you to choose an internet provider and have them provide service to your location.

Answer: No – Fibre Connect does not require you to choose an internet provider or service plan. Fibre Connect is the process of bringing the fibre infrastructure to your location. Once the infrastructure has been connected, you will be able to choose your provider and service plan.

Answer: Without Fibre Connect, there will be no infrastructure for providers to provide you with internet service.

Answer: No – checking your address or selecting Fibre Connect does not require you to make any decisions or sign up for service.

Answer: After signing up for Fibre Connect, the County’s construction partner, AFL, will contact you to arrange a site visit.

Answer: AFL will visit your property to complete an Access and Entry Agreement (AEA) and review the best and least intrusive way to install fibre. Upon completion, they will provide you with a quote.

Answer: No – the quote is no obligation and is for informational purposes only. You can choose whether to move forward with the Fibre Connect process.

Answer: Fibre Connect construction depends on several factors such as your project phase, weather, and ground conditions. Construction is expected to begin in late winter or early spring. AFL will explain timelines during the site visit.

Is there an “early bird” offer for Fibre Connect?

Answer: Yes – there is a limited-time early bird rate available while construction continues on the Broadband project.

Answer: Yes – there is a limited-time early bird rate available while construction continues on the Broadband project.

Answer:

• $399 for the first 100 metres, plus GST
• $14 per metre after the first 100 metres, plus GST

The standard rate is $1,500 for the first 100 metres, plus GST.

Answer: Yes – you can secure the early bird rate for Fibre Connect now and choose an internet provider and package once service is available.

Answer: Prices are subject to change as the project moves forward. Early bird sign-ups will secure current pricing.

Answer: Fibre is traditionally installed underground and is designed to limit disruption. AFL will explain the process during the site visit.

Answer: No – installation only happens once you choose to proceed after reviewing your quote. Early bird sign-ups will secure current pricing.

Answer: A copy of your signed AEA is sent to the County office, who will issue an invoice to your property the month after the Fibre Connect construction is completed.

Answer: You can still show interest, but extra permission may be required later. Please inform your landlord, property manager, or your homeowner’s association about your interest.

Answer: No – you do not need to choose an ISP or service package until after the Fibre Connect process has been completed.

Answer: Yes – the County is working with multiple ISPs to give residents and businesses the ability to choose their provider. Provider information will be shared as agreements are finalized.

Answer: Each ISP will have their own services, packages and rates available. Once you have selected a service provider, you will be paying them directly. Each provider will have their own terms and conditions, and we recommend that you compare multiple options to ensure you are getting the service that best fits your needs.

Answer: Yes – updates will be shared as providers and services become available. Please sign up for the Clearwater County Broadband e-Newsletters at [link to CWC site].

Answer: Project updates are shared through the County’s website and official communication channels, including Clearwater County Broadband e-newsletters. Residents and businesses are encouraged to subscribe to the Broadband Updates e-newsletter for the latest information.

Answer: Additional information, including answers to common questions, is available on the Clearwater County Broadband Project page at [insert link]. Residents and businesses can also submit questions through the program website using the Contact tab at the top of the page. Broadband Committee meetings are live streamed for those who wish to follow project discussions and decisions. Meeting agendas and minutes are available at [insert link].