History
The Kentucky Communications Network Authority (KCNA) and its’ Board manages and oversees the KentuckyWired network, the Commonwealth's open-access broadband network. KentuckyWired is focused on meeting needs for government locations, but more importantly, positioning Kentucky to be a national leader in high-capacity fiber optic connections which promote economic development, enhance education and research capabilities, ensure public safety, improve healthcare delivery, and augment connectivity for libraries and communities.
A public-private partnership with Macquarie Capital was established to design, build, operate, and maintain the network for 30 years. KentuckyWired is unique in that it is an "open access" network. This means governments, private companies or other groups may acquire access to this "middle-mile" network, but the network does not provide "last mile" services - the lines that run to individual homes or businesses.
KCNA is part of the General Government Cabinet and is administratively attached to the Office of the Governor. The Board consists of the Secretary of the Governor's Executive Cabinet, who shall serve as Chair of the Board, the State Budget Director, the Secretary of the Transportation Cabinet, the Secretary of the Economic Development Cabinet, the Secretary of the Justice and Public Safety Cabinet, the Commissioner of the Department for Local Government and a representative from the Center for Rural Development.
Mission/Vision
The Kentucky Communications Network Authority (KCNA) is the public technology authority that manages the Commonwealth’s open access network to provide affordable broadband connectivity, foster collaboration, and promote innovative use digital technologies connecting the people of Kentucky to the world. This network will transform Kentucky through affordable connectivity to enable a better way of life by ensuring digital equity throughout the Commonwealth.
Anticipated Benefits
Investing in a statewide fiber communication backbone expands the Commonwealth's opportunities, with benefits such as economic development and tourism growth, higher education advances, and interconnected public safety, serve to improve all Kentuckians' lives and lifestyle.
Simply stated, benefits and opportunities that rely on a fiber rich communication network will be available statewide, not just in our larger metro areas.