Expansion of broadband service could soon be taking a big step forward. The Kentucky League of Cities announced Wednesday that Hopkinsville Electric System had been approved by legislators to receive 4.3-million dollars in loans to expand broadband service in the city.
The unanimous approval of the loans comes after the Capitol Projects and Bond Oversight Committee tabled the request from the Kentucky Infrastructure Authority to approve the loans back in June. Members of the committee met again Wednesday, with State Senator Whitney Westerfield joining KIA representatives to speak in support of the request.
The loans will allow HES to expand high-speed internet to 3600 additional customers in Hopkinsville, which KIA Executive Director Donna McNeil testified would support economic development in the community. The money will fund the installation of 50 miles of aerial and 15 miles of underground fiber.
The first phase of the HES project was funded with the help of a 2007 KIA loan. During his testimony, Westerfield pointed out the utility had been good stewards of the money and had met the terms of the loan. He also vouched for the organization’s services.
Phase three of the project is expected to begin in 2020 and could cost an additional $8 to $10 million, with that part of the project expected to be funded from cash flow.
Hopkinsville Mayor Hendricks points out the city is in the process of becoming a Gig City, which is a designation that indicates fast, reliable internet service. He considers the broadband project key to ensuring that happens.
