Owenton, Nov. 30, 2023 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Owenton, Kentucky -
November 30, 2023: OWENTON, KY – Broadlinc, a local broadband service provider, has announced a transformative expansion to increase internet accessibility in Southern and Eastern Kentucky. This initiative emerges from a strategic partnership with The Center for Rural Development, backed by a $10 million portion of a broader $30 million grant initiative. This project embodies Broadlinc's commitment to connecting unserved or underserved communities, impacting approximately 33,000 homes with cutting-edge broadband services.
Kerry Bowlin, President of Broadlinc, asserts, "This initiative represents a pivotal moment for rural Kentucky. Our efforts will not only connect homes but will also foster a thriving, connected community that stimulates economic growth and empowers individuals to work and learn remotely."
Echoing this sentiment, TJ Scott, Broadlinc's VP of Operations, highlights the broader implications of the initiative: "By enabling access to reliable broadband, we are unlocking a world of opportunities for Southern Kentucky, fundamentally changing the way people live and work."
The endeavor will leverage the latest in fixed wireless technology, including 5G LTE, to provide at least 25mbps down/3mbps up internet speeds. Broadlinc's network design strategically utilizes licensed CBRS and EBS Spectrum to deliver a high-performance wireless experience across nine critical counties.
“We have all now seen how important reliable internet is almost every aspect of our lives. ” said Lonnie Lawson, President and CEO of The Center for Rural Development. “With this expansion, we are taking a monumental step towards bridging the digital divide in rural Kentucky. This is a further testament to our commitment to empowering and enriching our communities.”
Broadlinc prioritizes a collaborative approach, actively engaging with the communities it serves to tailor the broadband rollout to their unique needs. The project kick-off is scheduled for early 2024, with the first sites going live in Pulaski County.
Partnerships with key organizations like The Center for Rural Development, the Commonwealth of KY and the Appalachian Regional Commission (ARC) underscore the collaborative nature of the project, ensuring a comprehensive approach to rural development.
With this expansion, Broadlinc not only addresses the current digital divide but also sets the stage for ongoing growth and development in digital literacy and broadband access across rural Kentucky. The company is also ready to engage with the NTIA’s BEAD program for future enhancements and connectivity improvements.