WestNet Wireless announced a $12 million infrastructure investment on Friday to dramatically expand high-speed internet coverage across rural Alberta, targeting communities that have long struggled with unreliable connectivity.
The Calgary-based internet and wireless service provider plans to construct 18 new cell towers and upgrade existing infrastructure over the next 18 months, with the first phase beginning in April 2026. The expansion will bring enhanced broadband service to approximately 15,000 rural residents across central and northern Alberta.
"Rural Albertans deserve the same quality internet access as urban centres," said WestNet Wireless CEO Michael Thompson during a press conference at the company's Calgary headquarters. "This investment represents our commitment to bridging the digital divide and ensuring all Albertans can participate in the digital economy."
The tower construction project will focus on communities between Edmonton and Grande Prairie, including areas around Whitecourt, Fox Creek, and Peace River. Each new tower will provide 5G-capable infrastructure with download speeds up to 100 Mbps, a significant improvement over current satellite-based options available in many rural areas.
Alberta's Minister of Service Alberta and Red Tape Reduction praised the private sector initiative during a statement released Friday evening. "WestNet Wireless is stepping up where market gaps exist, and this investment will have real economic benefits for rural families and businesses," the minister said.
Economic Impact Expected
The infrastructure expansion is projected to create 45 construction jobs and eight permanent technical positions across the affected regions. Local economic development officials estimate the improved connectivity could attract new businesses and enable remote work opportunities that previously weren't viable in these communities.
"Reliable high-speed internet is no longer a luxury—it's essential infrastructure," said Dr. Sarah Chen, a telecommunications policy researcher at the University of Calgary. "This investment addresses a critical gap that has limited economic development and educational opportunities in rural Alberta for years."
WestNet Wireless expects to complete the first phase of tower installations by September 2026, with full network optimization finished by early 2027. The company estimates the expanded coverage area will serve farming operations, small businesses, and residential customers who have relied on slower satellite connections.
The announcement comes as rural internet access remains a key infrastructure challenge across Canada. Statistics Canada data shows rural areas continue to lag significantly behind urban centres in both internet speed and reliability, affecting everything from online education to telemedicine services.
WestNet Wireless currently serves customers across Alberta through its existing network of towers and partnerships with other telecommunications providers. The company has been expanding its Alberta presence since 2019, focusing on areas underserved by larger national carriers.
Construction permits for the new towers are expected to be finalized within the next six weeks, with environmental assessments already completed for all proposed sites. The company said it worked closely with local municipalities and Indigenous communities to ensure proper consultation throughout the planning process.