The success of the Netflix series Below has resulted in a lot of new eyes on rural parts of the province, and to Municipalities Newfoundland and Labrador, that underscores the need to keep infrastructure in those areas in top shape.
Successful TV series like Republic of Doyle, Hudson and Rex, and Son of a Critch have all used St. John’s as their primary backdrop, but Below is unique in that it is set in the rural community of Snook’s Arm.
MNL President Amy Coady says the show highlights the importance of rural areas to the province’s culture and identity, as well as the need to keep up on local infrastructure – not just in terms of tourism but also to allow similar shows to be produced.
She uses cell phone connectivity as an example, saying it is still an issue in many areas.
She says with more people going to these areas, businesses are going to want to expand, and having connectivity for things like interac and online purchases is important.
Other infrastructure needs, according to Coady, include roads, water and sewer, and accommodations.
