Faster and more extensive Internet service is coming to the Comox Valley. Telus is investing more than $17.5 million in the Comox Valley this year to continue extending the reach and speed of its advanced wireline and wireless broadband services. "This significant investment will enable us to provide local businesses and residents with access to innovative services like 4G wireless, high-speed Internet and Optik TV," Maureen Kirkbride wrote in a letter to Courtenay council, which was received Monday. The local investment is part of Telus' $670-million infrastructure investment across B.C. in 2011. "This year, right here in Courtenay-Comox, Telus will invest $17.5 million to further expand our world-class wireless network and bring faster Internet speeds to even more local businesses and households," Ray Lawson, Telus general manager for Vancouver Island, said in a news release. "Not only are we proud to serve our customers every day of the year, our 21 Telus team members in Courtenay-Comox are proud to give where we live and do our part to help build a better community for us all." In 2011, Telus will continue to invest in its Optik TV and high-speed Internet services as it lays thousands of kilometres of fibre optic lines to support growing demand in B.C., according to the release. The company will also deliver British Columbians access to even better and faster wireless broadband services by installing almost 80 new cell sites and introducing HSPA+ Dual Cell technology, one of the most advanced wireless technologies in the world, it noted. In 2011, Telus will also continue to expand its 4G wireless network across B.C., installing about 76 new cell sites to bring service to even more rural communities and highway corridors and strengthen its coverage in urban centres.