Parson Announces Google Data Center Selection

Governor Mike Parson announced on Wednesday, March 20, that Google will locate a new data center in Kansas City, investing $1 billion and supporting up to 1,300 jobs. The data center, the company’s first in Missouri, will accompany contributions from Google to the region’s workforce and energy infrastructure.

Google’s selection of the Kansas City region is another example of our state’s ability to attract and support world-class companies - Missouri Governor Mike Parson

“Google’s selection of the Kansas City region is another example of our state’s ability to attract and support world-class companies,” said Governor Parson. “Our skilled workforce, superior infrastructure, and prime business climate continue to result in investments from leading employers. We welcome Google to Missouri and look forward to the positive impact it will provide for our growing high-tech sector.”

Google’s data center will be located in Kansas City’s Hunt Midwest Business Center and represents a significant investment in the company’s ongoing innovations and growing Google Cloud business. Google’s data centers help power popular digital services such as Google Docs, Maps, Search, Gmail, and more. The company is partnering with Ranger Power and D. E. Shaw Renewable Investments (DESRI) to provide 400 megawatts of new, carbon-free energy to support the data center’s operations.

“We have reached an important inflection point for tech innovation like AI, and data centers are the backbone of this progress,” said Monique Picou, Global Vice President of Cloud Supply Chain and Operations at Google. “Our announcement today is a testament to the resources, talent and welcoming spirit of the Kansas City community. 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.”

Google also announced it will expand a skilled trade career development program to the Kansas City region and contribute $100,000 to the North Kansas City School District’s STEAM center. In addition, the company will bring its Skilled Trades and Readiness (STAR) program to the area while collaborating with the Missouri Works Initiative and Urban League to promote the talent pipeline for the skilled trades.

“This significant investment from Google speaks to the value of Missouri’s economic advantages and collaborative partnerships,” said Michelle Hataway, Acting Director of the Department of Economic Development. “We’re proud to support this historic project as Google joins a growing list of innovative companies that are helping Missourians prosper.”

KPGZ News - Brian Watts contributed to this story