Assuming there’s a 3.8 percent annual increase in the use of Internet broadband in California during the next 10 years, San Diego could gain 152,000 new jobs and $11 billion in added payroll in that period, according to a study released Nov. 13 by the Sacramento Regional Research Institute.
The study, done by the SRRI, a joint venture between the Sacramento Area Commerce and Trade Organization and Cal State Sacramento, found that the state could gain 1.8 million jobs and $132 billion in added payroll if the adult use of broadband continues on its current pace. The study was commissioned by San Antonio-based AT & T; Inc.
The SRRI used statistical models as well as economic and broadband usage data from 2001 through 2005, and analyzed 24 major regions of the state.
The report determined that between 2002 and 2005, the increased use of broadband Internet created about 198,000 jobs and about $11.6 billion in salaries in California.
Julie Meier Wright, president of the San Diego Regional Economic Development Corp., said local defense, life sciences and telecom companies are more reliant on broadband infrastructure and would be positively impacted by increased broadband use. “Every industry is increasingly technology-dependent, if not technology-driven,” she said.
, Mike Allen
