Cowichan Internet & Cellular Connectivity Strategy

The Project

In 2022-2023, the Cowichan Valley Regional District (CVRD) is undertook a project to better understand the state of internet and cell phone connectivity in the region, and create a strategy to meet our connectivity needs long into the future. This project was led by staff from the CVRD’s Economic Development Division (Economic Development Cowichan or EDC), and a consultant, IBI Group, was hired to augment the work.

On this page you will also find links and information to help you better understand connectivity and how it impacts our daily lives.

Connectivity Strategy Approved!

On April 12, 2023, the Cowichan Valley Regional District Board of Directors endorsed the Cowichan Internet & Cellular Connectivity Strategy with its 28 recommendations and 3 Community Connectivity Plans.

The Regional Connectivity Strategy recommends that the CVRD continue in its role of observing, advocating and influencing the rollout of connectivity infrastructure and services in the region, with the potential to evolve into a more active role in the future. The report provides 28 specific recommended actions focussing on advocacy and facilitation, affordability and access, infrastructure, local government policy, and cellular coverage. The Community Connectivity Plans outline specific technologies, network plans and funding models to bring improved service to the three priority underserved communities: Thetis and Penelakut Islands, Cowichan Station, and the Cowichan Lake Region. The Plans provide a roadmap for these communities to tackle their connectivity challenges.

Community Connectivity Conversations

We’re creating roadmaps to improved internet and cellular connectivity for three of Cowichan’s most underserved communities:

Cowichan Lake Region
Cowichan Station
Thetis & Penelakut Islands

In September 2022, we hosted sessions in each of these communities to help understand their digital aspirations and what’s holding them back. We explored ways that connectivity can enhance these community, and discussed barriers that need to be overcome to achieve their digital goals. Thank you to all those who participated!

Regional Engagement

In April 2022, Economic Development Cowichan conducted a survey, idea boards, and a mapping exercise that gave users an opportunity to tell us about their connectivity experiences and aspirations for the future. We also hosted a virtual open house that explored the ins and outs of connectivity, and the current state of connectivity in Cowichan. Attendees participated in an exercise to uncover why connectivity is important to residents and businesses in Cowichan, which was designed to help the CVRD develop a vision for the future of connectivity for the region. We would like to thank all those who participated!

The recording of the open house is available to view here: https://youtu.be/oWyruwEuK_0.

Results of the regional engagement are available here: https://www.planyourcowichan.ca/29339/widgets/125189/documents/81619.

As a result of these engagements, the CVRD Board approved the following vision for the future of connectivity in Cowichan:

“The Cowichan Valley Regional District is a connected community, with an appropriate and efficient mix of technologies deployed throughout the region that provides affordable access to connectivity services for all homes and businesses. Connectivity enhances the livability of our communities by enabling business, employment, health care, education, security, and social and family connections for residents of all backgrounds and income levels.”