Fibre internet provider telMAX has officially broken ground in Barrie, marking the latest step in its expansion across Ontario.
The Markham-based company, named Canada’s fastest internet service provider by PCMag for the fourth consecutive year, will roll out its fibre-to-the-premise network to homes and businesses across the city.
Dignitaries including Mayor Alex Nuttall, Barrie–Innisfil MPP Andrea Khanjin, councillors Gary Harvey and Nigussie Nigussie, and senior telMAX executives attended the groundbreaking in a southwest Barrie subdivision.
Nuttall said the investment aligns with the city’s priorities.
“Barrie is a city that values innovation, technology and forward-looking infrastructure,” he said.
“We’re excited to welcome telMAX into our community and look forward to the positive impact this partnership will deliver for local residents and businesses in the years ahead.”
Khanjin said the project will boost the local economy.
“Strong connectivity helps businesses compete, supports entrepreneurs and attracts new investment,” she said.
When completed in 2026, the network is expected to cover upwards of 75 per cent of Barrie’s homes and businesses. The service promises ultra-fast symmetrical speeds, low latency and reliable connections for remote work, online learning, gaming, streaming and smart home integration.
telMAX president and CEO Michael Strople said the expansion into Barrie is about more than infrastructure.
“From families streaming and learning at home to local businesses staying competitive, reliable fibre internet touches every part of daily life,” he said.
“We’re proud to bring Barrie the fastest internet in Canada and to help strengthen this vibrant community for years to come.”
The company already operates in other Ontario municipalities, such as Aurora, Brooklin, Markham, Newmarket, Richmond Hill and Stouffville, with plans for more expansion in 2026.
