Sechelt Innovations Limited says it’s hoping to get a network of WiFi hotspots up and running as early as June.
Sechelt Council gave its approval for the project Wednesday.
The idea is to cover downtown with WiFi using bandwidth offered up by local businesses already connected to the internet.
SIL Business Development Officer Dave Jephcott says having free WiFi downtown has benefits that go beyond convenience and an opportunity for businesses. It can help change the perception that small communities are lacking in tech savvy.
The WiFi system would cost about $113-thousand. The District is being asked to put up $10-thousand to install the access points as part of work on street lighting it already has planned.
Councillor Darnelda Siegers says there’s already been some indication people might be worried about more WiFi signals, but this project would actually mean a reduction.
