(Toronto) Rogers Communications announces a plan to offer full 5G connectivity services across the entire Toronto subway system, including access to 911 service for all riders.
Rogers specifies that there has been an agreement for the Canadian activities of BAI Communications (BAI Canada), which has held since 2012 the exclusive rights to build the wireless network of the Toronto Transit Commission (TTC), which operates the metro. With this acquisition, Rogers can undertake the investments required to build a 5G network for the entire TTC metro network.
Today, TTC users who own a cell phone can only dial 911 where the cellular network exists, i.e. on station platforms, in concourses and in about a quarter of the tunnels. Rogers assures that it will quickly close the gaps in the busiest and most critical sections of the metro.
The construction of the 5G network is expected to take about two years since the work required to install the network will have to be carried out only at night to avoid interruptions in metro service for users.
Significant upgrades to the fiber optic network and radio equipment are required to modernize the network and increase the cellular capacity of the current 3G and 4G networks and the quality of services.
Toronto’s subway system has 75 stations and is nearly 80 kilometers long.
Rogers expects its acquisition of BAI Canada to close within the next two weeks. Completion of the transaction is, however, subject to certain closing conditions.
Company quoted in this dispatch: Rogers Communications (TSX: RCI.B)