Service expansions in rural areas around Prince George were completed earlier this year. "While the internet is something that many people take for granted, the Connecting BC program reminds us that many rural and remote areas don’t have high-speed access," Northern Development CEO Joel Mckay said in a press release. "This first step will provide increased economic opportunities for these communities and many other communities in the near future.” A total of 31 areas in the region were upgraded to broadband service this year. "Earlier this year, we heard from communities that were experiencing increasing demand for internet access," B.C. Minister of Citizens’ Services Lisa Beare said in a press release. "Networks were being pushed to their limit as more people stayed home to work and learn remotely. The Connecting British Columbia program helps internet service providers like ABC Communications with the costs of making quick upgrades to improve internet performance and reliability, so people have the connectivity they need to help navigate the challenges of the COVID-19 pandemic.”