03/21/2025

How Data Centers are Transforming Local Communities

The economic and other benefits can be far-reaching

At a recent groundbreaking for one of our data center campuses, three members of the community told our team, "Great, we're going to get a Trader Joe's now."

It may sound funny, but this is one small part of the data center effect. Having Starbucks and Whole Foods establishments in the neighborhood famously have been associated with higher property values. Data centers also boost the communities where they're located, by creating jobs and supporting revitalization efforts, for example.

Of course, the industry faces criticism too, often based on outdated perceptions that do not reflect advances in design and sustainability. But public opinion is shifting—partly thanks to growing recognition of data centers' vital role as the digital backbone of the economy and helping enable AI.

Please select this link to read the complete article from Fast Company.