The gaps in wireless coverage along Highway 75 could soon be a thing of the past.

It was announced Friday morning that a key element of Bell's proposal to purchase MTS would involve a commitment to make investments of $1 billion over five years to improve internet, television and wireless products in Manitoba.

Wade Oosterman, Group President Bell Canada
Wade Oosterman, Group President Bell CanadaAs part of the expenditure, Bell MTS would build three new cellular towers along Highway 75. This would ensure continuous 4G LTE and HSPA+ coverage all along the highway.

"Bell MTS will hit the ground running in Manitoba with major new investments in broadband communications, including the completion of full wireless coverage along this critical transportation route," said Wade Oosterman, Group President of BCE Inc. and Bell Canada responsible for all Bell wireless, residential and media services. "The gaps in coverage along this high-traffic corridor have been a concern to residents, businesses and travellers of all kinds. Building better communications networks is what Bell does best, and we're proud to announce this investment to extend our award-winning mobile technology on Manitoba's Highway 75."

Limited coverage currently exists along 3 stretches of Highway 75. Those areas are between Ste. Agathe and Morris, between Morris and Highway 14, and between Highway 201 and Emerson.

"The Bell MTS commitment to improving Highway 75 wireless coverage will enhance the safety and efficiency of a strategic trade and travel artery that is a vital component of Manitoba's trade and transportation network," said Premier Brian Pallister. "Investment in world-class communications services is critical to Manitoba's ability to compete and prosper in the national and global economies and we applaud today's commitment to improved communications services."

Pallister noted he was "extremely optimistic" that future announcements would be forthcoming surrounding improved service further east towards Vita.

Bell's proposal to purchase MTS, which was announced earlier this month, is valued at approximately $3.9 billion and is expected to close in late 2016 or early 2017.

(L-R) Patricia Solman (MTS Senior VP of Network and Field Services), Wade Oosterman (Group President of Bell Canada), Chris Goertzen (President of the Association of Manitoba Municipalities), Manitoba Premier Brian Pallister
(L-R) Patricia Solman (MTS Senior VP of Network and Field Services), Wade Oosterman (Group President of Bell Canada), Chris Goertzen (President of the Association of Manitoba Municipalities), Manitoba Premier Brian Pallister

Courtesy Bell MTS
Courtesy Bell MTS