In the past, waterways brought communities to life, providing the critical transportation needed for prosperity. Today, it’s the flow of data through high-speed fiber connections that brings vibrancy and growth to modern communities.
One such community is Lexington, Kentucky. Gatton Park on the Town Branch—Lexington’s newest cultural hub—sits on the banks of the historic Town Branch creek. This 12-acre public green space offers something special for everyone. It integrates nature, history, art, technology and community to create a welcoming oasis for families, students and professionals.
Just a short walk from the famed Central Bank Center and Rupp Arena, parkgoers can step into a front-row seat for big-name concerts, cultural festivals or local community talent nights on the CommonSpirit Health Stage and Great Lawn. If big crowds aren't your thing, explore the First Impressions interactive sculpture, take in a writing workshop at the Reading Room or enjoy the natural beauty of the Loop trail through the heart of the park.
As part of the vibrant development of Gatton Park, park officials recently signed a $1 million deal with Kinetic to deliver high-speed Wi-Fi throughout the park, powered by Kinetic's 100% fiber network. This new upgrade helps ensure the best possible experience for the Gatton Park community, and it’s part of a larger international movement to enrich public spaces with secure, reliable connectivity.
The community impact of free Wi-Fi
What could your community do with free Wi-Fi in public spaces? What impact could it have on the quality of life for all residents and visitors? Gatton Park shows how secure, high-speed and accessible connectivity can transform public spaces, and at Kinetic, we’re excited about the possibilities.
Public Wi-Fi can do much more than just connect devices—it can power limitless possibilities in a community. Access to high-speed internet connectivity encourages people to stay longer in an area and engage in more activities, which can boost community involvement and increase revenue for local businesses.
Wi-Fi enables remote work and learning in public spaces. Internet access removes the barrier of location, allowing students to conduct research or attend online classes. Professionals can access work software or attend online meetings at their convenience in the more relaxing environment of a public space. No matter the reason, public spaces with safe and accessible Wi-Fi provide an equal digital opportunity for everyone, allowing internet access for anyone in need.
Another significant benefit of accessible and secure Wi-Fi in public spaces is the increased sense of safety and security for visitors. More connected people means more eyes on the street and easier access to information, making public spaces and communities more functional for all. On a similar note, studies have shown that free community Wi-Fi can be an important part of bridging the digital divide when it comes to accessing digital health resources.
Perhaps most important of all, a safe and accessible internet connection supports community connection— allowing all to share local knowledge, promote events and increase social interaction. Internet connectivity can enhance many educational programs and entertainment events with added features, encouraging more participation and a richer audience experience.
What this means for Lexington
Gatton Park is a shining example of a public space turned vibrant cultural hub where all can learn, relax, work, be entertained and feel connected to their community.
“By bringing Kinetic Wi-Fi to Gatton Park, we’re helping make sure that people can work, learn, and connect—whether they’re attending an event or show, taking a lunch break, or enjoying the trails,” said Stephanie Bell, vice president of State Government Affairs for Kinetic in Kentucky. “Kinetic is proud to support Lexington and park goers, as this park has the connectivity to anchor where art, history, and technology converge.”
With the success of Gatton Park on the Town Branch, other municipalities may be looking for similar ways to enrich their own spaces. With public-private partnerships, communities see an exciting and positive new era of corporate sponsorships, in which naming rights are less important than the ability of corporations to actually make an impact that communities can feel.
Kinetic is more than just a leading fiber provider—we live and work in the community too, and we believe high‑speed internet should be both reliable and affordable. Kinetic cares, and that’s why we bring fiber connectivity to more than 1,400 communities across our 18‑state footprint—backed by transparent pricing, flexible plans, and the performance customers depend on. It’s how we create real impact: doing what we do best and making it accessible to everyone.
Learn more about Kinetic Fiber Internet.
