As construction of the KentuckyWired middle mile fiber network enters its final phases, The Center for Rural Development is working to offer internet service providers (ISPs) with access points to extend reliable high-speed, high-capacity internet throughout Southern and Eastern Kentucky.

The Center is collaborating with a multitude of ISPs to discuss logistics for CenterLinks Access Nodes. The CenterLink Access Nodes can be thought of as access ramps for providers to tap into the KentuckyWired middle mile network. These discussions are shaping plans to expand and improve broadband services throughout the region.

Additionally, The Center has recently launched a Technology Assistance Program (TAP) to help communities begin asset mapping, perform feasibility studies, and conduct pre-engineering analysis of community fiber projects or other activities that will extend the reach of the KentuckyWired fiber infrastructure. The initiative is funded by grant KY-18984-17 from the Appalachian Regional Commission and is administered by The Center for Rural Development.

The Center is dedicated to helping communities explore ways to become “fiber ready”, in order to make reliable high-speed, high-capacity internet available to as many people as possible. The Center encourages communities and ISPs to work together and utilize TAP resources to plan last mile services that originate at CenterLinks Access Nodes.

The Center also has information about local, state, and federal funds that support the initiative to bring broadband access to rural areas and will be hosting regional training sessions to help community leaders implement the last mile.

More information about TAP can be found at https://centertech.com/2019/01/technology-assistance-program-tap/. Communities interested in broadband training opportunities and internet service providers looking to learn more about accessing the KentuckyWired middle mile through CenterLinks Access Nodes, are encouraged to contact The Center at broadbandinfo@centertech.com or 606-677-6000.