TEXADA ISLAND – CityWest announced today it has acquired Gillies Bay Internet Society (GBIS), an Internet service provider on Texada Island.
The acquisition was made “through a partnership agreement to bring better connectivity to the community,” a press release says.
“CityWest will take over the existing infrastructure that the GBIS had managed, providing copper and wireless Internet service to 250 homes and businesses on Texada Island.”
Additionally, CityWest will make an initial investment of $150,000 to upgrade the community’s existing infrastructure. “CityWest will work with the leadership team from GBIS to determine how to best allocate the funds,” the release says.
“In the short term, GBIS customers can expect a smooth transition as CityWest takes over the network. Customers will not notice a change in their bills or their existing services,” according to the release.
CityWest is working with GBIS to get going on outstanding work that has been requested by residents, including service upgrades and is working on enhancing services using a variety of technologies for residents outside of GBIS’s current footprint.
“We see Texada Island as a great opportunity to bring our company’s expertise to a community with massive potential for connectivity,” said Stefan Woloszyn, CEO of CityWest, in the release “We have been honoured to work together with the Gillies Bay Internet Society on a plan for better connectivity in their community.”
“CityWest will be able to provide GBIS with the funds, expertise, and technical experience to make full use of the Connected Coast’s backbone,” said Brian Seymour, Gillies Bay Internet Society.
“This project, along with CityWest’s investment into our community, will bring better connectivity to Texada residents. GBIS has worked closely with CityWest on this partnership, and we are excited to see what their services can do for our community.”
