For the Record

Public information updates will be posted here to provide clarity on topics and to correct inaccurate information that may circulate on non Township of Langley communications platforms.

The facts on fibre optic internet service in the Township of Langley

The Background

The Township of Langley is aware of misinformation circulating on social media stating that the Township is responsible for a Telecommunications Service Provider’s (TSP) inability to provide high speed fibre optic internet services in certain Langley neighbourhoods, such as Bedford Landing in Fort Langley. This is false.

For a TSP to provide its services to residents of Langley, they must have various equipment, such as overhead wires, poles, buried fibre optic and coaxial cables, antennas, and switches, installed throughout the community, primarily in service corridors such as roads or right of ways which are under the jurisdiction of the Township.

TSPs are also required to obtain the Township’s consent to construct its equipment pursuant to the Telecommunications Act.

To facilitate coordination between TSPs and the Township, and to streamline the installation of telecommunications equipment including fibre optic internet services in the Township, the Township entered into Telecommunications Works Cooperation Agreements which govern the relationship between the Township and TSPs allowing for streamlined installations of high speed fibre optic internet services in the Township.

The Facts

• The Township supports fibre optic internet service installations for our community members.
• There are no Township barriers preventing TSPs from expanding their networks in the Township.
• TSP fibre optic internet service installations are underway and have been increasing due to Township efforts.
• The Township streamlined the process for TSPs to advance the process even more efficiently and effectively.
• The Township is not involved with directing or funding upgrades to TSP equipment, has no input into service levels provided by TSPs, or their decisions in determining when, where or how they proceed with equipment upgrades.
• TSPs have the final decision if and when they install fibre optic internet services to Township areas.
• The Township does not demand special fees from TSPs aside from minimal costs for permits and plan reviews.
• The Township’s only role is to review plans for public safety and conflicts with existing infrastructure then process permit applications, and if needed to participate with TSPs on conflict reviews to allow the process to continue.
• Procedures are in place to protect Township assets and community members, and for the safety and sustainability of important services for Township residents (e.g. plan reviews and permits prevent technical conflicts, and protect public water and sanitary systems, and 3^rd party systems for electricity and gas).
• An agreement was negotiated by the Township and TSPs outlining the process, procedures, fees, and other information allowing for streamlined installation of fibre optic internet service if TSPs decide to do so.
• TSPs agreed to pay the Township fees and charges for applicable services which ensure that the TSPs’ activities do not impose a financial burden on Township residents.

The Process

1. Interested parties reach out to their TSP for the installation of fibre optic internet services in their area.
2. TSPs decide if they wish to act on the application, and if so, submit plans and apply for permits to the Township.
3. Township reviews the plans to prevent technical conflicts and protect important water, sanitary, gas and electric systems.
4. A permit (where required) is provided to TSP by the Township – aiming to do so in two weeks subject to approval of submitted plans.
   1. This can be delayed if technical conflicts or safety concerns are found.
   2. In some case, TSP equipment installations may be required to also comply with applicable federal and provincial laws which can affect the installation schedule. These are out of the Township scope of decision-making.
5. TSPs are approved to advance on their installations, if and when they choose to, and on their schedule.

Connect with your TSP to Request Fibre Optic Internet Services in Your Area

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