TUCSON, Ariz., Jan. 23, 2014 /PRNewswire/ -- Tucson could see as much as $100 million in new business sites across downtown in 2014 and up to $1 billion in the downtown corridor over the next 10 years, according to Michael Keith, CEO of the Downtown Tucson Partnership. He credits the foresight, planning and infrastructure investment in downtown by Cox Communications, Cox Business and other area utilities as major components of the renaissance.

"Cox Business has already invested millions of its own dollars installing 3.25 miles, or the length of 57 football fields, in 1G network downtown and is working with business owners, developers, architects and the city of Tucson to determine additional locations for its service expansion," explains Pam Crim, director of business sales, Cox Business-Southern Arizona. She adds, "Our partners have provided great insight to help us finalize our development calendar."

According to Keith, "The frenetic pace of new business development parallels the commitment by Cox and others that have supported the unprecedented investment along the Modern Streetcar corridor. There is a new emerging workforce in an urban center that is demanding faster data and expanded phone and video services, and Cox made an enormous capital investment to provide that service." He points to five new restaurants and clubs, new retail, a new boutique hotel, a 44-room luxury apartment building and a 300+ multifamily complex opening on the west side planned for early this year as evidence of the renaissance for which Cox Business helped lay the foundation.

City manager Richard Miranda appreciates that Cox Business is firmly committed to Tucson's growth. "Pam and the Cox Business team have been terrific partners. Tucson is better positioned to attract technology-driven businesses if we have reliable, scalable telecommunications infrastructure in place--and Cox Business is helping us expand our business-ready footprint," says Miranda.

Lisa Lovallo, Cox Southern Arizona Market vice president, board member and past chair of the Downtown Tucson Partnership, knows how important Tucson's urban core is to the success of the region. "Along with Cox, dozens of businesses have invested more than $280 million in downtown Tucson. The immediate and long-term impacts of these investments will position Tucson for stronger job growth and a more prosperous future."

SOURCE Cox Business Arizona