G7 Summit delivers permanent telecommunications infrastructure improvements to the Bow Valley region

Kananaskis, Alberta

Strong, reliable and up-to-date infrastructure is essential to the success of the 2025 G7 Summit in Kananaskis. Through an investment of more than $60 million to permanently bolster the telecommunications infrastructure throughout the Bow Valley region, preparations for the Summit are already delivering lasting economic benefits to the region.

Just over $20 million will go towards improving the existing high-speed network that connects Calgary, Banff and Kananaskis, where G7 Summit operations will take place. These improvements will increase the network’s fibre-optic capacity and enhance its overall reliability.

Another $40 million will improve and expand regional cellular network coverage and capacity. Highlights include:

• The installation of a new cellular tower at the Calgary International Airport to ease network congestion by increasing capacity.
• A new cellular tower in the town of Banff to address longstanding connectivity issues caused by network saturation during the busy tourism season.
• Four new cellular towers along Highway 40, from the junction of Highway 1 to Kananaskis, to address gaps in cellular coverage along this transportation corridor, where coverage was previously weak or nonexistent. Public safety in the region will be improved through enhanced emergency response times along Highway 40 thanks to the improved cellular coverage.

These infrastructure upgrades will not only ensure that communications systems run smoothly and securely during the G7 Summit, but that the permanent benefits will be felt by residents, businesses and visitors to the Bow Valley region for years to come. 

Quote

“Investments in robust and modern telecommunications infrastructure will help to securely deliver the G7 Summit in Kananaskis, and their long-term effects will help close the connectivity gap for communities in the Bow Valley region. Residents and businesses will benefit from the widespread, consistent cellular services now and in the future.”

The Honourable Joël Lightbound, Minister of Government Transformation, Public Works and Procurement

Quick facts

• Canada assumed the Presidency of the G7 on January 1, 2025, and will host the G7 Leaders’ Summit in Kananaskis, Alberta, from June 15 to 17.
• While Kananaskis successfully hosted the 2002 Summit, rapid advancements in technology and communication now require an upgrade to the wireless network and enhanced security measures. These critical infrastructure improvements are crucial to ensuring reliable connectivity and protecting against emerging security risks.
• Shared Services Canada, the department that manages critical information technology (IT) and telecommunications infrastructure and services for the Government of Canada, is responsible for the upgrades, which have been completed.
• This will be the seventh G7 summit hosted by Canada, and the second time it is held in Kananaskis, Alberta.

Associated link

• Canada’s 2025 G7 Presidency