GCI seeks to end long distance service in six Southeast Alaska communities

GCI Communication Corp. filed an application May 6 to stop providing long distance phone service in six Southeast Alaska communities: Gustavus, Hoonah, Kake, Klawock, Metlakatla, and Tenakee Springs. The company is requesting an expedited decision by August 4.

The six communities are geographically isolated in Southeast Alaska.

The long distance service GCI wants to end connects Alaska communities to each other within the state. The Regulatory Commission of Alaska must determine whether continued service is required by public convenience and necessity under state law. Public comments are due by 5:00 p.m. on May 29, giving affected communities 21 days to respond.

Alaska Statute 42.05.261(a) requires public utilities to get commission approval before discontinuing service. The commission must find the service is not required by public convenience and necessity. The statute gives the commission authority to schedule a hearing where residents can voice support or opposition. However, the law does not define what constitutes public convenience and necessity, leaving the commission discretion to weigh factors like availability of alternative services and community impact.

AT&T Alaska proposed ending long distance services in 42 rural Alaska villages in 2024, affecting 500 residential and 1,400 business customers, following a 2023 decision to end service in 15 villages. GCI receives federal funding through 2026 under the Alaska Plan to support wireless and internet service upgrades, aimed at bridging the digital divide.

Comments must be filed at the commission's office at 701 West 8th Avenue, Suite 300, Anchorage, AK 99501, or online at https://rca.alaska.gov/RCAWeb/WhatsNew/PublicNoticesComments.aspx. Reference Docket U-26-014 and include a statement that you filed a copy with GCI at 1049 W. 5th Avenue, Suite 100, Anchorage, AK 99501.

The complete filing is available at http://rca.alaska.gov by searching "U-26-014."