Improved cell coverage coming to Hwy 3 between Hope and Keremeos

Those travelling through southern British Columbia will soon be able to count on more reliable cell service on Hwy 3.

A project to improve cellular coverage on the route between Hope and Keremeos was announced by the Province today.

It will improve coverage along an estimated 92 kilometres of Hwy 3 by adding 11 new cell towers.

"Improved connectivity along essential transport routes like Highway 3 will help keep people and businesses safe when they travel," said Roly Russell, MLA for Boundary-Similkameen.

"Emergencies like the recent flooding and landslides have highlighted the importance of access to reliable cellular coverage for the safety of people travelling our province."

Currently, cell coverage along this section of Hwy 3 is “intermittent,” the Province said.

It will address coverage gaps between both Hope and Manning Park, as well as Princeton and Keremeos, which is presenting the biggest challenge right now.

The provincial government said that the project will ensure consistent cellular coverage along the entire route.

As much as $3.1 million will be invested into this work by the Province through the Connecting British Columbia grant program.

The grant, administered through the Northern Development Initiative Trust, will supplement the $9.7-million cost of the project and the remainder will be provided by Rogers.

The project is expected to be complete by fall 2024.