Rogers starts to expand 5G network to rest of TTC subway system

Will connect 75% of remaining tunnels so all riders have access to 5G service and 911 everywhere underground

A TTC electrician pulls Rogers cable through tunnel between Kennedy and Warden stations as the next phase of construction of the company’s 5G cellular network in the TTC subway system begins 

TORONTO, May 31, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Rogers Communications today announced it has started the next phase of construction of its cellular network in the TTC subway system to expand 5G services and access to 911 for all riders to the remaining underground tunnels.

“We are so excited to start this next phase, building out the 5G network to connect the rest of the TTC subway system for all riders,” said Ron McKenzie, Chief Technology & Information Officer, Rogers. “As Canada’s largest and most reliable 5G network provider, Rogers is proud to lead and invest to deliver world-class connectivity to Canada’s largest transit system.” 

The expansion work began this week in the tunnels between Kennedy and Warden stations on Line 2. Together with the TTC, Rogers is expanding the network in phases to connect the remaining 36 kilometres of unconnected tunnels. Work is being done during overnight and weekend construction windows to minimize disruption for riders.

When complete, the modernized and expanded 5G network will deliver seamless wireless coverage with mobile voice and data services in all 75 stations and tunnels across Toronto’s subway system, part of Rogers commitment to expand connectivity for Torontonians.

“Today’s announcement marks an important milestone in the expansion of cellular coverage to the rest of Toronto’s subway system. Transit riders and commuters deserve a safe TTC. Bringing 5G service to the unconnected tunnels is going to make a marked difference for transit users. Thanks to Rogers for leading the build, and to the TTC,” said Toronto Mayor Olivia Chow.

“I am pleased that Rogers has started the next phase of building out the 5G network in TTC subway tunnels, beginning with the tunnels on Line 2 Bloor-Danforth between Warden and Kennedy stations,” said Jamaal Myers, TTC Chair. “Improving 9-1-1 calling for all customers is an important outcome that will increase safety for riders and TTC employees.”

In April 2023, Rogers acquired the cellular network in the TTC subway system from BAI Canada and committed to invest hundreds of millions of dollars to roll out 5G service and 911 access across the entire subway system. BAI’s aging 3G and 4G network only reached station platforms and concourses and 25% of the tunnels and could not support the traffic of customers of the major carriers. 

Last August, Rogers introduced 5G in the busiest areas of the TTC subway for its customers and turned on 5G service in these areas for all riders in October. In December, the company completed the upgrade of the legacy network and turned on 5G service for all riders at all remaining stations and in the tunnels of the Vaughan extension between Sheppard West and Vaughan.

This investment is part of Rogers ongoing commitment to bring Canadians the best networks. Through its national network investments, Rogers is Canada’s largest and most reliable 5G network, which now covers over 2,300 communities. In 2023, the company was awarded the best wireless network in Canada for the fifth year in a row by umlaut, a global leader in independent network benchmarking.

B-Roll available here.

About Rogers
Rogers is Canada’s leading wireless, cable and media company that provides connectivity and entertainment to Canadian consumers and businesses across the country. Rogers shares are publicly traded on the Toronto Stock Exchange (TSX: RCI.A and RCI.B) and on the New York Stock Exchange (NYSE: RCI). For more information, please visit: rogers.com or investors.rogers.com.

For more information:
media@rci.rogers.com
1-844-226-1338

A photo accompanying this announcement is available at https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/d730d944-32e8-4b86-9f91-3e9a608d30ec

A video accompanying this announcement is available at https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/50b01e72-8c39-44c5-b352-6d37de895fbe