Rogers and Fido Customers Can Now Stay Connected Downtown on the SkyTrain
Rogers lights up Dunsmuir Tunnel with wireless service
VANCOUVER, July 22, 2016 /CNW/ – Rogers today announced it has turned on wireless service in the SkyTrain Dunsmuir Tunnel, helping keep people connected across Metro Vancouver and improve their experience on their ride.
In partnership with TransLink, Rogers and Fido wireless customers can now surf the Internet, make and receive calls, send and receive emails and text messages, stream video and music, and more on their mobile devices while travelling along the Dunsmuir Tunnel. This service covers the Stadium–Chinatown, Granville, Burrard and Waterfront stations as well as all the track between them.
“People expect to be able to use their phones wherever they are, which is why we are investing to make sure our network is on for our customers wherever their day takes them,” said Gord Nelson, Vice-President, Sales, British Columbia. “Now Rogers and Fido customers can use their mobile phones exactly the same way when they are in the Dunsmuir Tunnel as they do above ground.”
Customers will be able to use the fastest voice and LTE technology. The Rogers network will also provide essential emergency coverage to all SkyTrain riders, so they can access 911, regardless of their carrier. Other wireless carriers can work with Rogers and TransLink to obtain access to the service for their customers.
“We’ve heard from customers that increased access to cellular data and connectivity is important and we are pleased to be working with Rogers to make this a reality,” said Derrick Cheung, Vice-President Strategic Sourcing and Real Estate, TransLink. “This partnership lays the groundwork for additional carriers to access the tunnel network so that eventually all our customers can experience the safety, security and convenience consistent connectivity affords.”
Rogers will continue to invest in Metro Vancouver by building out wireless coverage along the SkyTrain, including the Edmonds, Columbia, New Westminster and Evergreen tunnels. Regardless of being above ground or in a tunnel, riders will be connected.
TransLink provides more than one million journeys across its integrated transit network each day; the 1.4 km route through the Dunsmuir Tunnel is one of the busiest stretches along the SkyTrain network.
“Connectivity is important, particularly in emergencies, as people sometimes need to reach out to report situations or to request help,” said Minister of State for Emergency Preparedness, Naomi Yamamoto. “Today, for the first time, 9-1-1 is accessible for all mobile phone users inside the SkyTrain Dunsmuir tunnel regardless of cell carrier. If there was a natural disaster, a criminal situation, transit disruption or other emergency, commuters and tourists with a phone could call for help and stay connected, providing added safety and security on one of the City’s busiest transit routes.”
About Rogers
Rogers Communications is a leading diversified public Canadian communications and media company. We are Canada’s largest provider of wireless communications services and one of Canada’s leading providers of cable television, high-speed Internet and telephony services to consumers and businesses. Through Rogers Media, we are engaged in radio and television broadcasting, televised shopping, magazines and trade publications, sports entertainment, and digital media. We are publicly traded on the Toronto Stock Exchange (TSX: RCI.A and RCI.B) and on the New York Stock Exchange (NYSE: RCI). For further information about the Rogers group of companies, please visit rogers.com.
About TransLink
TransLink is Metro Vancouver’s regional transportation authority that manages bus,
SkyTrain, West Coast Express, SeaBus, HandyDART and cycling routes as well as the major road network and five bridges.
SOURCE Rogers Communications Canada Inc. – English
Image with caption: “Rogers and TransLink celebrate turning on wireless service for Rogers and Fido customers in the SkyTrain Dunsmuir Tunnel. From left to right: Derrick Cheung, Vice-President Strategic Sourcing and Real Estate, TransLink; Gord Nelson, Vice-President, Sales, British Columbia, Rogers Communications; Leon Leroux, Director, Network Implementation, Western Region, Rogers Communications; and Guy Akester, Director, Real Estate Program and Partners, TransLink. (CNW Group/Rogers Communications Canada Inc. – English)”.
