Meta Announces New Data Center in Montgomery, Alabama, Supporting 100 Jobs
Meta AI-Optimized Data Center Coming to Montgomery, Alabama
Montgomery, Alabama is set to become the home of a new Meta AI-optimized data center, marking a significant expansion of the company’s presence in the state. The new data center, which will complement Meta’s existing data center campus in Huntsville, is expected to go online by the end of 2026.
The state-of-the-art Montgomery data center will span an impressive 715,000 square feet and will represent Meta’s 24th data hub globally and the 20th in the United States. The facility will be powered by 100% renewable energy and reach net-zero emissions, reflecting Meta’s commitment to sustainability. Furthermore, the Montgomery data center will be LEED Gold certified by the U.S. Green Building Council.
Alabama Governor Kay Ivey expressed her enthusiasm about Meta’s investment in the state, stating, “Each day, millions of people around the world use Meta’s products, and the next-generation Alabama data center in Montgomery will soon help keep the company’s popular platforms running smoothly. Meta is putting down roots in another great location in Sweet Home Alabama, and we’re committed to helping the company grow and prosper here.”
At a recent ceremony held at the Montgomery Whitewater facility, Governor Ivey, along with Meta officials and state and local leaders, unveiled the company’s plans for its new data center in Alabama. Brad Davis, Director of Community and Economic Development at Meta, highlighted the strategic appeal of Montgomery, citing its access to infrastructure, renewable energy, and a strong talent pool.
Alabama Secretary of Commerce Ellen McNair commended Meta on its decision to expand into Montgomery, underscoring the state’s attractiveness to the high-tech sector. She emphasized the potential for further growth resulting from the strong partnership between Alabama and Meta.
Mayor Steven L. Reed of Montgomery praised Meta’s selection of the city for its new data center, noting the positive impact it will have on the region’s economic landscape. Caryn Hughes, chair of the Montgomery Chamber of Commerce, also lauded the collaboration that led to securing the Meta project, emphasizing the economic benefits it will bring to the capital city.
This announcement comes in the wake of Meta’s successful venture in Huntsville, where the company established its first data center in 2018. Since its inception, the Huntsville campus has expanded to accommodate over 300 operational jobs, underscoring Meta’s significant presence and investment in the state of Alabama.
In addition to Meta’s commitment to Montgomery, other rural communities in Alabama are also attracting investment. Demopolis-based Two Rivers Lumber recently announced plans to create 130 jobs at its new sawmill in Coosa County. Specializing in Southern Yellow Pine dimensional lumber production, the sawmill is expected to have a substantial economic impact on Coosa County and the surrounding region.
Established by the McElroy family and Roy Geiger, Two Rivers Lumber has demonstrated steady growth since opening its first sawmill in Marengo County in 2017. The company’s expansion in Coosa County reflects its commitment to Alabama and the state’s thriving forest products industry.
Another notable rural investment project is Clark Gas’s acquisition of a 50,000-square-foot building in Thomasville for a new distribution center. The facility, strategically located in the South Thomasville Industrial Park, will support regional warehouses in multiple states and enhance Clark Gas’s distribution capabilities.
These developments underscore Alabama’s appeal to a diverse range of industries, from cutting-edge technology to traditional manufacturing, highlighting the state’s robust economy and commitment to fostering growth and innovation.
As Alabama continues to attract investment and create job opportunities in various sectors, the state’s reputation as a prime location for business expansion and development is further solidified. With Meta’s new data center set to bolster the state’s technological infrastructure and enhance its global connectivity, Alabama is poised for continued growth and economic prosperity in the years to come.
The announcement of Meta’s new AI-optimized data center in Montgomery, Alabama reflects a larger trend in the technology industry of companies expanding their data center infrastructure to support their growing operations. With a focus on sustainability, the new facility will be LEED Gold certified and powered by 100% renewable energy, showcasing a commitment to reducing carbon emissions. This investment is not only beneficial for Meta but also for the local community, as it will create 100 operational jobs and bring economic growth to the region. Overall, the growth of data centers in Alabama highlights the state’s attractiveness to high-tech companies and the potential for further economic development.
Meta investing $800M for Montgomery, AL data center campus – Business Facilities Magazine