Cox Communications Middle Georgia operations have created an ongoing business activity of an average of $245 million per year, supported or created an average of 1,325 local jobs with personal earnings of $82.9 million and paid an average of $23 million in local and state taxes, according to a 2013-2015 economic impact study released today.
 
The study, conducted for the years 2013-2015 by Mercer Assistant Professor of Economics Dr. Antonio Saravia, shows the impact Cox has on the area’s economy. Cox Middle Georgia’s five-county service area includes parts of Macon-Bibb, Houston, Jones, Monroe and Peach Counties.  
 
With operations in the metropolitan areas of Macon and Warner Robins, Cox employs over 130 in the area with a payroll of $12 million. Between 2013 and 2015, as technology has rapidly evolved, Cox has invested over $20 million in Middle Georgia infrastructure, and has plans for over $85 million in upgrades through 2022, which is vital to operating a 24/7, dynamic and complex business that is focused on connecting customers to the things they care about the most.
 
“We are incredibly proud of the millions we spend annually to upgrade our telecommunications infrastructure and provide the leading-edge technology necessary to keep Middle Georgia residents and businesses connected to their world and make their lives easier,” said Anthony Pope, senior vice president and region manager.  “Cox is uniquely positioned within our industry with the strength and backing of a national company. We remain committed to giving back to the local communities we serve and investing in future technologies.”
 
Saravia concurred that economic outputs are not the only benefit Cox contributes to the economy. Homes and businesses directly benefit from the availability of the fastest internet speeds available, a benefit made possible by Cox’s continual investment in system upgrades.
 
"Arguably, the most important economic impact of Cox’s business activity in Middle Georgia is the establishment and maintenance of a telecommunications infrastructure that allows the region to keep up with the technological demands of a dynamic economy,” said Dr. Saravia. "Cox’s business activity produces revenue for local businesses and governments and supports and creates hundreds of jobs, generating a significant multiplier effect that greatly benefits the region.”
 
In addition to the economic impact associated with capital expenditures and ongoing activities, Cox has established itself as a company committed to the community, innovation and diversity. The study notes that Women in Cable Telecommunications has recognized Cox the top operator for women and DiversityInc has ranked it among its Top 50 Companies for Diversity 11 times.
 
Cox Middle Georgia also contributed more than $1.6 million in cash and in-kind services to charitable causes between 2013 and 2015.  In addition, the James M. Cox Foundation presented a grant to EveryoneON to supply low -income Middle Georgia students with a tablet.  Cox employees also sit on 18 local non-profit boards and committees, and have volunteered nearly 1,000 hours to the community.