If a study published this week is any indication, the Tri-Cities region could use a little more fiber in its diet. According to research by University of Tennessee at Chattanooga economist Bento Lobo, Chattanoogaâs early development of a municipal high-speed broadband network generated $2.7 billion in economic benefits since it was built in 2009. With an initial investment of $396.1 million, including a $111.7 million stimulus grant from the Department of Energy, utility provider EPB helped generate 9,516 jobs, brought $244 million in new business, landed $110 million in research projects and saved businesses $260 million in improved electricity reliability. Thatâs an impressive return on investment that should spark the interest of economic development officials everywhere.