Media Releases

Major Rural Broadband Network Taking Shape in Cumberland and Colchester

One of the largest optic fibre-based high speed internet networks in rural Canada is being built in the Municipalities of Colchester and Cumberland.   An Agreement between the Municipalities and Xplornet Communications Inc. was signed on August 21st following unanimous approval of both Councils.

 

Read more: Major Rural Broadband Network Taking Shape in Cumberland and Colchester

Cliffs of Fundy Achieves UNESCO Global Geopark Designation

The Cliffs of Fundy Geopark, spanning the Fundy shore of Cumberland and Colchester counties from Apple River to Lower Truro, has officially been named a “UNESCO Global Geopark”. The prestigious designation was announced today at a meeting of the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) Executive Board in Paris and is anticipated to be a catalyst for tourism growth in Nova Scotia.

Read more: Cliffs of Fundy Achieves UNESCO Global Geopark Designation

A Message of Condolences

“Words cannot describe the depth of sadness we are feeling as we mourn those lost to this senseless tragedy. The news has been shocking and for many of us, we are still coming to terms that this nightmare is indeed reality.

On behalf of Colchester County Council I would like to extend our sincerest and most heartfelt sympathies to all the families, friends and community members affected. Our hearts go out to you.

We especially acknowledge RCMP Constable Heidi Stevenson who was killed in the line of duty as she bravely worked to serve and protect her community. Our thoughts and prayers are with her family, friends, and the entire RCMP organization. Moreover, we thank all first responders for their selfless courage and heroic efforts and extend our profound appreciation for all involved.

In memory of those lost, the flags at our Colchester Municipal Offices are being flown at half mast.

For those affected by these tragic events and in need of help, please reach out.

  • The Mental Health Provincial Crisis Line is available 24/7 to anyone experiencing a mental health or addictions crisis, or someone concerned about them, by calling 1-888-429-8167 (toll free).
  • Kids Help Phone is available 24/7, by calling 1-800-668-6868 (toll-free).
  • Morneau Shepell has also opened its 24/7 bilingual crisis support line to help anyone in need of emotional support as a result of these tragic events. The number is: 1-844-751-2133

In closing, as we learn more details about the tragic events of April 18th &19th  and the true impact to our community, we would encourage all to show love and support to one another as we process this unfathomable event together. We will get through this difficult time."

Mayor Christine Blair On behalf of Colchester County Council

Cumberland-Colchester Connected Communities Initiative

Cumberland Colchester Connected Communities Vision: 

The Municipalities of Cumberland and Colchester’s shared vision, as articulated in a Cumberland-Colchester Memorandum of Understanding, is that our entire geographic area will be served by a state-of-the-art continuously upgraded communications network that includes capacity for reliable, affordable, highest-speeds internet access, as well as mobile telephone, community Wi-Fi, and internet-of-things uses such as ‘smart agriculture’, 5G and other future applications.

The Municipalities of Cumberland and Colchester consider high-quality, cost-effective internet services to each home in our communities to be an “essential service” – a service no less important than electricity or services like water or sewer. To reach our Connected Communities Vision, the Municipalities of Cumberland and Colchester identified our first step as increasing access to highspeed internet with the goal of reaching 100% of our households with actual highspeed internet.

To reach our first goal, the Municipalities of Cumberland and Colchester have partnered with an industry leader and leveraged other government funding for the Cumberland-Colchester Highspeed Internet Project. More details about this project can be found in the links below. We will continue to add information about this project as it becomes available.

Municipalities of Cumberland and Colchester Getting Major Rural Broadband Network

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE – 7 February 2020

The Municipalities of Cumberland and Colchester have taken a huge step toward their goal of being one of Canada’s most digitally connected rural places. They are teaming up with Xplornet Communications and Develop Nova Scotia on a high-speed internet project that will see $60 million invested in the region.

Xplornet will deploy nearly 700 kilometres of optic fibre to offer up to 100 Mbps fibre-to-home and fixed wireless services on their network, which will reach more than 21 700 currently underserved households and businesses. A further 2300 addresses will have access to improved satellite service that will reach up to 50 Mbps by the completion of the full network. The three-year project is aiming for 100% high-speed availability in Cumberland and Colchester.

Read more: Municipalities of Cumberland and Colchester Getting Major Rural Broadband Network

Province Funds Colchester Projects to Reduce Emissions

The Province is helping to reduce emissions in Colchester County by investing in two new clean energy and transportation projects.

Finance and Treasury Board Minister Karen Casey, on behalf of Energy and Mines Minister Derek Mombourquette, recently announced a total of $170,000 for two projects under the Low Carbon Communities Program.

“Nova Scotia continues to be a national leader in reducing emissions to fight climate change,” said Ms. Casey. “Communities across the province understand the urgency and importance of reducing emissions, and they want to do their part to benefit from Nova Scotia’s cleaner energy future. These investments support innovative local ideas that will help grow the green economy and create jobs in every part of our province.”

The Municipality of Colchester will receive $100,000 to design a pedestrian and active transportation bridge at the Fundy Discovery Site in Lower Truro to link a network of trails north and south of the Salmon River.

The Municipality will also receive $70,000 to develop a community energy emissions plan to help guide Colchester to a low-carbon future.

“These projects are wonderful examples of Colchester County’s commitment to active transportation, sustainability, and carbon reduction. We’re happy to be doing our part to address climate change while promoting healthy living and an enhanced visitor experience at the Fundy Discovery Site,” said Christine Blair, Mayor of the Municipality of Colchester.

For more information contact Devin Trefry at This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. or call 902-897-3182.