Today the Joint Economic Development Organization (JEDO) board approved an incentive agreement to aid in the growth and expansion of Mercury Broadband.

GO Topeka confirmed that the expansion, previously referred to as “Project Gateway,” is expected to produce up to 168 new full-time jobs, with an average yearly wage of $43,000, including benefits, over the next five years. The total economic impact expected in the next 10 years is $520 million with a return on investment of 712%.

“The field of technology is always growing, especially within the arena of internet service. With this incentive we hope to dramatically increase our staff and provide specialized training so that they may better serve our customers and grow in their profession,” said Matthew Sams, Chief of Staff, Mercury Broadband. “Mercury Broadband is immensely grateful to the JEDO board and GO Topeka for this incentive and for aiding in our continued growth.”

Mercury Broadband expects to finish renovations on its new call center, where the majority of these new positions will be housed, in the third quarter of 2021. This new office is located at 3400 SW Van Buren.

“It’s always inspiring to see incentives put toward the continued development of talent in our area,” said Shawnee County Commissioner Kevin Cook. “In addition to recruiting and developing talent within our community, Topeka & Shawnee County will be able to reap the benefits of Mercury Broadband’s investment during this growing phase and the extremely positive economic impact of $520 million that we’ll experience in the next decade.”

“The broadband gap is an ongoing issue many in our city and region are faced with,” said Topeka Mayor Michelle De La Isla. “This project will help meet the needs of our community while also growing our workforce and overall economy.”

“With this project we are not only seeing a substantial investment but also the promising addition of positions along with training opportunities that will help grow our workforce,” said Barbara Stapleton, vice president of business retention and talent initiatives, GO Topeka. “Developing these resources within our community both aids our community and the next generation of professionals.”

The JEDO approved performance-based incentive for this project is up to $847,000.

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If you would like more information about this topic, please contact Bob Ross at Bob.Ross@TopekaPartnership.com.