The train is on the tracks heading toward the deployment of 5G connectivity on the Toronto Transit Commission subway, but there are two carriers that would like to derail it. Rogers Communications Inc. (NYSE: RCI) acquired the rights to develop wireless service in the Toronto Transit Commission subway system in April. However, Bell Canada and Telus Corp. argue that the three should build the network together.
Earlier this month, Richard J. Leary, TTC CEO, announced that the first phase of 5G connectivity would be available in the subway system this fall. The preliminary design on the remaining 5G tunnel work has commenced along with the purchase of the cabling. An effort to identify two new shared base station sites to operate the remaining lines is also underway.
“We anticipate that the remaining 5G/Cellular station and the next phase of tunnel designs will be finalized in winter 2023, which will facilitate the creation of an overall project schedule,” Leary wrote.
However, the federal industry department is entering the fray, seeing that the carriers don’t appear to be able to work out a deal on their own, according to the Globe and Mail. Industry Minister François-Philippe Champagne is seeking to arbitrate the dispute.
“While all carriers expressed an interest in a coordinated solution, progress in negotiations has been limited. Despite my request to do so, the carriers have not reached an agreement,” Champagne said in a news release.
In April, Rogers acquired BAI Communications’ Canadian operations, which held the exclusive rights to build the Toronto Transit Commission’s wireless network since 2012. The acquisition allowed Rogers to undertake the investments required to build a 5G network in the entire TTC subway system.
By J. Sharpe Smith, Inside Towers Technology Editor
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