Kentucky is seeking input from broadband providers in the next phase of an effort to expand internet access, Gov. Andy Beshear said.

Republican lawmakers and the Democratic governor agreed to use $300 million of pandemic relief funds to extend broadband service and promote economic development.

The state is soliciting ideas, suggestions and comments from broadband providers, Beshear’s office said.

The information will be used in determining the questions to be included in the upcoming formal Request for Proposals. The input also will help determine other conditions providers must meet to receive an award from the Broadband Deployment Fund.

“This is the first step toward strategically using these funds to support the construction, development or improvement of broadband access across the commonwealth, with our unserved communities receiving first priority,” Beshear said.

The fund will assist in constructing the “last mile” of broadband access to unserved and underserved households and businesses across Kentucky.