"We are pleased to move forward with the next phase of the Kentucky Plan," said KET Executive Director and CEO Virginia G. Fox. The plan, which began with informal talks several years ago among Kentucky public television station heads, calls for the elimination of duplication in the areas of programming, production, and personnel and for more efficient use of the broadcast spectrum, Fox said.
"This is a major step forward in bringing the state together," said KET Authority Chairman Steven W. Newberry, "and a wonderful opportunity to partner with the Louisville community in new and exciting ways."
Louisville-area residents will not see any substantial program difference until July 1. Beginning on that date, broadcast channel 15 in Louisville will carry KET's statewide schedule. Channel 68, KET's current Louisville station, will be taken off the air for a transmitter upgrade. Meanwhile, KET will solicit input and finalize plans for a new service on channel 68, tailored to the Louisville metropolitan area, to be launched in August.
"We are considering several options for a second service that will deliver needed educational services and sustain itself financially," said Fox. "Much will depend on community feedback from corporate and business partners, the educational community, and the public and on the level of support for various initiatives."