"We are very particular about the markets we choose to invest in, and we believe Macon is an ideal partner," Hargray Chairman and CEO Michael Gottdenker said. "Our state-of-the-art fiber optic network will provide the speed and reliability Macon businesses need to navigate and thrive in the evolving digital economy."

Earl Barrs, a longtime Macon resident, landowner and developer, is particularly excited about the impact Hargray's presence will have on the area.

"Having Hargray here with its fiber network is going to be a win for the community, both residents and businesses," Barrs said. "It gives people another reason to want to stay here, to move here, educate their children here, start businesses here, take jobs here and invest here. Having that technology gives Macon an edge it has never had before."

Macon-area business owners will be able to receive higher speeds and more reliable connectivity to the internet, including speeds of 1 gigabit per second and beyond, as well as data storage, backup and continuity services. Services will be available starting late spring.