Cable Connects Texans

Economic Investment

Texas Cable Operator Profile 2009

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The Texas Cable Association (TCA) was founded in 1960 and today represents Texas cable operators across the state that provide service to more than 4 million Texas customers. 

Since the enactment of the Federal Telecommunications Act in 1996, cable companies have invested more than $100 billion nationally to upgrade their networks.  This massive upgrade program has transformed one-way analog video networks into two-way broadband platforms capable of offering digital, interactive and on-demand television services, as well as high-speed Internet, digital telephone, and other information services.  These upgrade investments of private risk capital have been made with no incentives, subsidies, or government guarantees.

In Texas, the cable industry’s decade-long blaze of advancement in video, data and voice services is changing the way Texans live — delivering more choice, convenience and control than ever before. This commitment to broadband deployment has empowered Texas consumers by offering them flexible options to serve their entertainment, information and communication needs.

Cable’s Commitment to Texas*

TCA members are working to offer a full range of advanced services including digital cable, High-Definition Television, Video-On-Demand, telephone, and high-speed data (HSD) services.  Over 80% of all Texans have access to cable’s high-speed data service.

Cable in Texas by the Numbers
Over 1,000 – Cities & communities served
4.2 million – Cable subscribers
2.1 million – High-speed Internet lines
620,000 – Digital phone connections
97,000 – Employees (direct and indirect)
More than $10 billion — Capital investment in Texas over the past 10 years
More than $1.5 billion – Franchise fees paid to state and local governments over past
$15 billion – Amount cable industry contributes annually to the Texas economy

Additionally:

Texas Cable industry generates $14.7 billion to the state economy each year

Cable provides video services to more than 4,000 schools

Cable provides high speed internet to more than 300 community centers and libraries

Cable companies donate over $30 million to local charities each year through cash, in-kind, and PSA donations