RADF Investment: $2.5 million

Other Investment: $1,509,280

Total Investment: $4,009,280

Project Period: February 2008–June 2011

T: 403.335.3311

E: [email protected]

Project Description

This project will result in 12 south-central Alberta communities gaining access to Alberta's SuperNet through Community Engagement Sites (CES). These sites will enable local residents to access broadband technologies, learning applications, and provincial and federal online support. The project is managed out of Mountain View County and is being implemented by the South Central Rural Alliance, which is composed of area municipalities and educational institutions.

Expected Outcomes and Benefits

All projects go through a selection process to ensure they will improve the quality of life for Albertans. This project meets this objective through the following outcomes and benefits:

• Provide local access to broadband and online technologies, providing information and support in key areas such as education, health, agriculture, and business
• Attract more young people and families to the region with accessible technology
• Create active Community Engagement Sites in the 12 partner communities (Olds, Cremona, Elnora, Red Deer, Spruce View, Sundre, Penhold, Carstairs, Sylvan Lake, Innisfail, Bowden, and Delburne)
• Provide a means for area students and residents to become actively engaged in distance learning programs
• Provide local businesses with access to the sites for training and promotional purposes
• Create more collaboration amongst communities, individuals, businesses, and industry regarding rural sustainability and economic development
• Offer improved access to government programs and services