FRANKFORT, Ky. (AP) -- A new audit says state officials in Kentucky ignored at least three written warnings about a contract to build a high-speed internet network that has since been plagued by delays and cost overruns.
Republican Auditor Mike Harmon released his 124-page report on Thursday. It examines Kentucky Wired, a project to install 3,000 miles of fiber optic cables in all 120 counties.
The audit notes former Education Commissioner Terry Holliday warned state officials they would not be able to use federal K-12 education money to make their annual payments on the project. It also found a private contractor and outside attorneys warned state officials the project's schedule was unrealistic and would likely cause delays. The project is now at least four years behind. Delays have cost taxpayers a projected $96 million.
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