Google announced its plans to expand into the Midwest with a new $1 billion data center in Kansas City.
KANSAS CITY, Mo. -- Google announced Wednesday its plans to expand into the Midwest with a new $1 billion data center in Kansas City.
Google also announced it's expanding a skilled trade career development program to the KC metro and contributing $100,000 to the North Kansas City School District’s alternative education STEAM program.
Google will work with Evergy to power the data center and Ranger Power and D. E. Shaw Renewable Investments (DESRI) to bring 400 megawatts of new carbon-free energy as part of the company’s goal to run on carbon-free energy.
“We have reached an important inflection point for tech innovation like AI, and data centers are the backbone of this progress,” said Monique Picou, the Global Vice President of Cloud Supply Chain and Operations at Google.
“Together, Kansas City and Google will help power America’s digital future and we are excited to contribute to the bright future of the region.”
The company said its investments in its data centers play an essential role in supporting the company's AI innovations and Google Cloud business.
Google’s data centers help power popular digital services like Google Cloud, Workspace, Search and Maps.
Gov. Mike Parson said Google's selection of Kansas City is another reflection of the state's ability to attract world-class companies.
“Our skilled workforce, superior infrastructure, and prime business climate continue to result in investments from leading employers," Parson said.
"We welcome Google to Missouri and look forward to the positive impact it will provide for our growing high-tech sector.”
Kansas City Mayor Quinton Lucas said Google selecting Kansas City is helping the city become a technology capital.
"Our combined effort with Google is a strong reflection of Kansas City's success in the global industry and our future as an international technology capital,” Lucas said.
Google announced it will bring its Skilled Trades and Readiness (STAR) program to the Kansas City area. The company is collaborating with the Missouri Works Initiative and the Urban League to help increase the entry-level pipeline in the skilled trades.
All STAR pre-employment programs are paid training programs and offer networking opportunities to help participants move directly into employment.
