BC Ferries will offer free Wi-Fi at 14 more terminals after receiving up to $1.5 million in grant money from the province. The grant will help cover the cost of bringing Wi-Fi coverage to minor route terminals, including public lounges, vehicle line up areas and parking lots.
“We’ve been hearing from people about how convenient it is to have free and reliable Wi-Fi access at BC Ferries terminals, particularly on minor routes where cellular service is less likely to be available,” said Lisa Beare, minister of citizens’ services. “These upgrades will make it easier for people to keep in touch with family back home and plan their travels while they wait for the ferry.”
Wi-Fi will be made available at terminals serving people on east Denman Island, Buckley Bay, Heriot Bay, Whaletown, Descanso Bay, Alert Bay, Vesuvius Bay, Sturdies Bay, Bella Bella, Port Hardy, Long Harbour, Otter Bay, Lyall Harbour and Nanaimo Harbour, according to a news release from the province and BC Ferries.
“This project will see us invest in ongoing terminal Wi-Fi operating costs. This partnership helps meet the provincial government’s goal to keep British Columbians connected by introducing Wi-Fi at more of our properties,” said Mark Collins, president and CEO of BC Ferries.
Work to install and activate Wi-Fi service at the 14 terminals is expected to be completed by Oct. 31 this year, the province said.
BC Ferries has a total of 47 terminals in the province. This project will bring the total number of terminals with Wi-Fi access to 21.
The province said the total estimated cost of the BC Ferries’ terminal Wi-Fi project is $1.67 million.
