Written By David Gomez
MIDDLESEX COUNTY - Efforts to expand high-speed internet access across Middlesex County were the focus of an update presented to council on March 10, outlining significant progress in two service areas while one portion of the county remains under development.
Presenting the report, Chris Bailey, Director of Information Technology Services, said the broadband project, part of Ontario’s Accelerated High-Speed Internet Program, divided the county into three service areas, or “lots,” awarded to internet providers through a competitive process. He noted that as of Dec. 31, 2025, North Frontenac Telephone Company (NFTC) had completed work in two of those areas.
“To date… NFTC has completed work in two of the three lots of Middlesex County, running over 1,230 kilometres of fibre, providing services to over 4,889 premises,” Bailey told council.
The report also highlighted the collaborative effort behind the project’s rollout. Bailey credited municipal public works teams and legal staff for helping expedite construction, noting that streamlined permitting processes and the use of a blanket Municipal Access Agreement played a key role in accelerating the build.
While much of the county now has access to fibre infrastructure, the remaining northeast portion is still under development. Bailey said the county has received limited updates from the province, with more information expected in spring 2026. He added that Warden Susan Clarke has written to the Ministry of Energy and Mines requesting that the remaining area be reassigned to NFTC, citing the company’s progress elsewhere in the county.
Council discussion also touched on service uptake and resident experiences. While exact subscription figures were not available, Bailey said demand has been strong and feedback from residents has been positive. Some connections remain pending due to seasonal construction limitations, particularly in areas requiring installation from the road to individual properties.
