Fibre-to-the-home network arrives in Nova Scotia
Sydney to be the first community in the province to experience premium Internet speeds, exceptional TV viewing
SYDNEY, NS, May 28 2010 --
announced that FibreOP(TM), its world-class fibre-to-the-home network (FTTH) is coming to Nova Scotia.
The company also announced the availability of premium Internet speeds - 170 Mbps download and 30
Mbps upload -on the new network. This is the first time Internet speeds like this will be available to
residential customers in the region.
Bell Aliant's FibreOP services will be available in Sydney, Nova Scotia as early as this fall.
"This advanced broadband network is the ultimate in today's Internet and TV experience," said Karen
Sheriff, president and CEO, Bell Aliant. "We're extremely pleased to offer our customers this future-proof
technology providing them with virtually limitless possibilities."Bell Aliant will be investing $15 million in the
Sydney area to bring FibreOP services to more than 30,000 homes and businesses. This investment is part
of Bell Aliant's previously announced 2010 capital program, which includes approximately $65 million for
FTTH. Bell Aliant expects to pass 140,000 homes and businesses with FTTH by the end of 2010.
The Province of Nova Scotia is contributing $2 million to the project.
"This investment is the right decision for families in Cape Breton," Premier Darrell Dexter said. "By way of
this loan the Province and Bell Aliant together will ultimately help Nova Scotia stay competitive in the global
economy. Now, more than ever, we have to ensure that we have the right telecommunications infrastructure
in place to create good jobs, grow the economy, explore new business opportunities and make life better for
families in every region."
Earlier this month the company also announced an additional $350million investment to be made in 2011
and 2012, which will bring the total investment in FTTH to almost a half billion dollars, expanding FibreOP
services to more than 600,000 homes and businesses.
FTTH is an advanced broadband network that carries FibreOP services, featuring unprecedented Internet
speeds and an exceptional High Definition television viewing experience for customers. FibreOP services
will be available to residential and business customers in Sydney, Sydney River, North Sydney, Sydney
Mines, Glace Bay and New Waterford starting in the fall of 2010. FibreOP Bundles will also be available in
the area at the same time.
About Bell Aliant
Bell Aliant (TSX: BA.UN) is one of North America's largest regional communications providers. Through its
operating entities it serves customers in six Canadian provinces with innovative information, communication
and technology services including voice, data, Internet, video and value-added business solutions. Through
its xwave offices, Bell Aliant also provides IT professional services and advanced technology solutions. Bel
Aliant's employees are committed to deliver the highest quality of customer service, choice and
convenience.
For further information:
Peter Murchland, Communications and Public Affairs, Bell Aliant,
1-877-487-3165,
peter.murchland@bellaliant.ca
SOURCE Bell Aliant