On Friday, Governor Beshear announced a $20.4 million investment in high-speed internet that will connect 3,574 homes and businesses in Henderson and Davis counties.
The state provided more than $10.2 million in funding to electric cooperative Kenergy to complete the work, and the company provided $10.2 million in matching funds. A news release from Beshear’s office said the project will add 652 network miles, providing high-speed Internet access to 2,353 homes and businesses in Henderson County and 1,221 homes and businesses in Davis County.
Beshear made the announcement during a visit to Henderson County High School.
“Now, whenever NTI is used in school, I always feel stressed out because my internet keeps going out,” said Drew Hagan, a junior at the high school. “Broadband access will not only improve this, but many aspects of our daily lives.”
Kenergy President and CEO Tim Lindahl said today’s broadband needs are like the federal electricity needs of the 1930s.
“By installing infrastructure that is owned by the people it serves and returning all the benefits to those people, we are using this funding to solve this generational problem,” he said. “Without everyone’s concerted efforts, A project of this size and speed would be impossible to accomplish, and I commend Governor Beshear, the Office of Broadband Development, legislators, county judges, executive officers, and all contractors who will call Kentucky home for the next few years. , as well as Kenergy’s board of directors and employees. Together we will get this done and become a model for the country to follow.”
Kenergy’s internet service provider partner, Conexon Connect, is working with the cooperative to provide high-speed internet to unserved and underserved communities in Kentucky.
“Together we are committed to deploying world-class fiber as quickly as possible in the areas Kenergy serves,” said Conexon Connect Randy Klindt. “The funding announced today by the Governor’s Office will help accelerate our progress, and we look forward to putting these funds to work in Davis and Henderson Counties.”
While in high school, the governor toured the Career and Technical Education (CTE) department with current students. In November 2022, the governor awarded $3.9 million to Henderson County Schools to improve the unit. With 15 different programs, the program is the largest career and technical program under one roof in the state, according to a news release from Beshear’s office.
“We are honored to have Governor Beshear visit Henderson County High School and thank him for his support of career and technical education,” said HCHS Principal Amber Thomas. “Our CTE facilities will undergo a $4 million renovation through state funding, which will further solidify Henderson’s position as a leader in career education.”