Quality Technology Services (QTS) has announced plans to construct a massive $10 billion data center campus in Cedar Rapids, Iowa, setting the stage for a significant technological expansion in the state. The ambitious project will unfold over the next several years and represents the largest economic development project in the city and state’s history.
The campus will span 612 acres and is expected to generate 2,000 jobs during and after construction. 7 data center buildings will be built within the Big Cedar Industrial Center.
The company plans to implement advanced technology and sustainable practices throughout the development. Renewable energy sources will play a central role, aligning with industry trends focused on reducing carbon footprints and advancing environmental responsibility. QTS’s water-free cooling technology will help to reduce environmental impact. The Cedar Rapids campus is expected to conserve approximately 4 billion gallons of water annually, compared to data centers using evaporative cooling.
Local officials have expressed strong support for the project, emphasizing the positive economic impact it will have on the community. The influx of jobs is expected to boost local economies, with additional benefits coming from increased demand for local services and businesses supporting the construction and operational phases. As part of its long-term commitment to Cedar Rapids, QTS is contributing up to $18 million to the Community Betterment Fund and investing in other local non-profit organizations. QTS is supporting the Cedar Rapids ReLeaf program and Monarch Research to replace private residents’ trees through a 5-year commitment of $100,000 per year to replace 4,000 trees per year and a total of 20,000 trees over the next five years.
“From day one, we believe in being a good neighbor. We chose Cedar Rapids for its strong infrastructure, skilled workforce, and forward-thinking community. As AI continues to transform industries, the need for secure and scalable infrastructure has never been more critical. This project reflects Iowa’s leadership in embracing the future of technology, and we’re proud to invest in a state that prioritizes innovation, sustainability, and community partnership.”
Tag Greason and David Robey, Co-CEOs of QTS
Once completed, the campus will position Iowa as a leader in the data center industry, attracting further investment and innovation. The project’s scale and scope underscore the evolving nature of data management needs and the infrastructure required to support them.
As the world becomes increasingly interconnected, the importance of reliable and expansive data centers only grows. QTS Data Centers’ investment in Iowa reflects a broader trend where technology and sustainability intersect, charting a course for the future of data infrastructure.
Source: $10bn data centre campus for Iowa
