Telus is planning to invest $2.8 million in Penticton in 2012 to expand their 4G LTE wireless network to the community and expand the availability of their Optik TV system.
“Telus’ $2.8 million investment will expand Optik TV to more neighbourhoods and bring the world’s fastest wireless technology to Penticton this year,” said Steve Jenkins, general manager of customer solutions delivery for the community.
“The demand for wireless services is exploding in Penticton and Telus is committed to making investments in infrastructure and technology to better serve our customers and community. We are deeply grateful for the hard work and outstanding commitment of our more than 155 local team members and retirees and for the support of our customers.”
The 4G LTE standard is currently the fastest wireless technology available. Telus’ 4G LTE network supports manufacturers’ rated peak download speeds of up to 75 megabits per second (Mbps), with an expected average of 12 to 25 Mbps, or almost twice the speed of the widespread 3G standard.
This significant investment is part of $3 billion in infrastructure upgrades being made across British Columbia through 2014 and builds upon the $26 billion Telus estimates they have already invested in operations and technology throughout the province over the last 10 years. By the end of 2012, Telus expects to expand the reach of its Optik TV service to reach 1.3 million B.C. households. At the end of 2011, Telus had 509,000 TV customers, adding 56,000 in the final three months of the year.