September 21, 2023: Clearwater County Launches Cutting-Edge Open Access Network (OAN) to Transform Connectivity in Rural Alberta

(Rocky Mountain House, AB) – Clearwater County, a large rural municipality located in west central Alberta is thrilled to announce the successful launch of an Open Access Network (OAN), a groundbreaking initiative that promises to revolutionize connectivity for businesses and residents across the county. With three out of six project phases completed, the OAN will leverage over 360 kilometers of fiber-optic cable and strategically placed wireless towers to deliver high-speed Internet connectivity throughout Clearwater County.

Managed collaboratively by Rigstar Industrial Telecom and Arcadis, Clearwater County’s OAN represents a significant leap forward in delivering high-speed and reliable Internet services to the majority of County residents. This OAN will serve as a crucial solution to address the concerns surrounding Internet access in modern classrooms and businesses, particularly in rural areas. It will provide high-speed and reliable connectivity, enhancing learning outcomes for students and enabling businesses to thrive, all the more critical given the challenges exacerbated by the pandemic.

The next steps include invitations for Telecommunication Providers to complete the form available on the County’s and Rigstar’s website.

Key Features of Clearwater County’s OAN

• High-Speed Connectivity: The network offers lightning-fast Internet speeds, enabling seamless streaming, remote work, online education, and much more.
• Comprehensive Coverage: Whether in densely populated areas or remote locations, Clearwater County’s OAN ensures comprehensive coverage, eliminating connectivity gaps.
• Reliability: The state-of-the-art infrastructure guarantees dependable service, even in challenging terrain and weather conditions.

“The launch of this network marks a significant milestone in our efforts to ensure that Clearwater County is a favorable location for investments by telecommunication providers,” said Clearwater County Reeve, Daryl Lougheed. “That will draw in sustainable business development where a healthy community can thrive for multiple generations”.

Clearwater County invites Internet Service Providers (ISP’s) and Carriers to experience the power of our Open Access Network. Together, we are reshaping connectivity, fostering innovation, and paving the way for a more digitally inclusive community.

For more information about accessing the wholesale services offered by the Clearwater County Broadband Network, please visit: www.rigstar.ca/network-operations-centre-noc/clearwater-county

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Media Inquiries:

Clearwater County Communications

communications@clearwatercounty.ca or 403-845-4444

Rigstar Industrial Telecom

Kyle Scutt, Marketing Director

kyle.scutt@rigstar.ca or 403-243-0600

Rigstar Background:

Rigstar is a leading telecommunications solutions provider, specializing in delivering cutting-edge connectivity solutions to businesses, communities, and industries. With a commitment to innovation and excellence, Rigstar empowers its clients to harness the potential of the digital world.

To learn more, visit www.rigstar.ca/network-operations-centre-noc/clearwater-county

Clearwater County Background:

Clearwater County is located in west central Alberta and has the economic strength of being home to the major industries of Energy, Agriculture, Tourism, and Forestry. Clearwater County is investing in a fibre network that provides open access for telecommunication providers to offer Internet services to our businesses and residents.

To learn more, visit www.clearwatercounty.ca/p/network-operator-rigstar

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