Background

The The Alberta Fiber Networks (“A-NET”) project is a build-to-own fiber-to-the-premise (“FTTP”) network serving the suburban Edmonton region.
The network was initially designed to serve 41,200 premises across the greater metropolitan area, serving the cities of Beaumont, Sherwood Park, Vermilion, and Hamlet of Nisku (collectively known as the “Authority”).
With planned adjustments to the final buildout, the network is expected to serve 44,200 premises when completed.
The cities and towns are currently underserved by their existing ISPs, which have not invested in full community wide fiber deployment. A highspeed fiber network is expected to be key to maintaining the communities’ existing economic base and future growth, and improving digital literacy, and supporting local businesses.
The A-NET project was developed in conjunction with the local municipalities resulting from direct negotiations as well as publicly tendered RFPs won by Meridiam and its partner, Digital Infrastructure Group (“DIG”), a regional fiber network developer. Public funding support will be provided by certain cities/towns in exchange for a small portion of profit-sharing.

Stage:

Under Construction and In Operations

ESG/SDG Key Facts

The Asset underpins Beaumont’s Innovation Park, which will be a home for businesses to develop cutting-edge innovation and technology in areas such as transportation and logistics, public safety, data, education, health and life sciences. Confirmed plans include the development of a best-in-class commercial transportation, law enforcement, and technological innovation campus.(1)
The Innovation Park will be a magnet for investment, creating jobs and driving economic growth for the community, the Edmonton Metropolitan Region, and Alberta.
As part of its agreement, A-NET will coordinate closely with CFOC to develop initiatives to engage communities in its network and ensure long-term stakeholder support.

Image source: istockphoto-1197753191-612×612-DATA

Source:

(1) https://www.beaumont.ab.ca/projects-plans/current-projects/innovation-park/