In a commitment to bridge the digital divide in Knox County, KUB Fiber has been providing free internet service to income-eligible student households through the KUB ConnectED program. As stated in a recent announcement, the program has now extended its reach to over 130 student households, ensuring that young learners have the necessary access to one-gigabit internet for their educational needs.
KUB Fiber's infrastructure advancements have allowed them to gradually expand throughout Knox County, making the high-speed service available in various neighborhoods. KUB maintains a distinct position as the only local internet provider to offer free, one-gigabit internet service to students from low-income families. KUB President and CEO Gabriel J. Bolas II emphasized the importance of this initiative, saying, "This program is crucial in addressing the need for broadband access in underserved and underrepresented communities. We are proud to be the only local internet provider offering free, one gigabit internet service to student households in our area."
Funded by the City of Knoxville and Knox County, participants of the ConnectED program benefit not only from the free broadband service but also get additional managed router services, including an in-home Wi-Fi router and enhanced services. The monthly provision of $80 ensures that the students can seamlessly connect to their online education platforms without any financial burden.
KUB Fiber's presence spans a significant number of communities, and by 2025, the plan is to continue marching forward into new areas such as Strawberry Plains, Holston Hills, and parts of North Knox County. The current service is available in Lonsdale, Bearden, and a host of other neighborhoods. With every new connection, KUB aims to directly contribute to leveling the playing field for students throughout the region, providing them the tools they need to not only succeed academically but to harness fully their potential in an interconnected world.
