Halifax-based communications service provider EastLink is taking over rival RuSh Communications Ltd. as of September 1. The acquisition lets EastLink expand its footprint in Nova Scotia and build a stronger presence, according to a press release. The company says customer integration should be smooth because most of RuSh's systems can be reached with EastLink's existing fibre-optic network. RuSh provides service throughout the province. Its largest systems are located in the Bridgetown area of the Annapolis Valley, the Clare area of Digby County, Milford, Port Hawkesbury, Richmond, Canso, Eskasoni, Mulgrave and Port Hood.