The Regional Municipality of Durham has reached a major milestone in the completion of Durham OneNet’s flagship broadband initiative, Project Genesis.
Enabled by funding from federal, provincial, and regional governments, Project Genesis is a public-private partnership aimed at building scalable broadband infrastructure to support economic competitiveness across Durham Region.
With over 99 per cent of the underground fibre optic infrastructure now constructed, more than 1,800 rural homes, businesses, farms, and municipal sites will gain access to high-speed internet through project partner Vianet. The initiative is designed to bridge the service and cost gap that rural communities have historically faced.
Project Genesis has been completed well ahead of the timelines set by the federal Universal Broadband Fund (UBF) and the provincial Improving Connectivity for Ontario (Icon) program. The project has also exceeded initial targets, covering nearly 30 per cent more premises than originally planned.
99% Coverage
Service is currently available to more than 90 per cent of the designated locations, with the remaining connections expected to be completed by the end of winter 2025. Communities benefiting from Project Genesis include Ashburn, Uxbridge, Leaskdale, Sunderland, Greenbank, Manchester, Myrtle, Columbus, Raglan, and Courtice.
Durham Region launched its Broadband Strategy in 2019 to bridge the digital divide, leading to the creation of Durham OneNet in December 2021. In 2023, Durham OneNet, through the Region of Durham, was awarded funding from Innovation, Science and Economic Development Canada and the Province of Ontario, contributing to a $30 million investment in broadband expansion across the region.
John Henry, Regional Chair and Chief Executive Officer, and Chair of Durham OneNet, emphasized the positive impact of the project. “The substantial completion of this project has improved broadband infrastructure in Durham Region, opening up new opportunities for economic growth, education, and innovation. Congratulations to the Durham OneNet team, and its partners, on the accelerated delivery of this project.”
For more information on Durham OneNet and Project Genesis, visit DurhamOneNet.ca.
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