Tech giant Microsoft has confirmed plans to build data centers in Licking County, Ohio, nearly a year after purchasing land in the area. The company recently acquired 227 acres of land in Heath for over $32 million, adding to a total of over 700 acres purchased in Licking County. Microsoft has also purchased land in Johnstown, Pataskala, and New Albany for data center construction.
A representative from Microsoft, Bowen Wallace, stated that construction on the data centers has already begun in Licking County. The company’s website further details their commitment to the local community, including investments in environmental sustainability and workforce development in the technology sector.
The technology boom in Licking County has been marked by the entry of Intel into the area in 2022, with the construction of the $20 billion Ohio One plant in New Albany. This development has attracted more technology companies to the region, including Amazon, DBT New Albany, and Google, who are building data centers in the area.
The growth of technology in Licking County has also led to investments in the community, such as a $90 million transportation project to support local infrastructure. Governor Mike DeWine highlighted the importance of infrastructure development to accommodate the increased traffic from tech companies like Intel and others moving to the region.
In addition to these developments, Columbus approved the construction of a 408-unit apartment building near New Albany, named Moore’s Edge Development after Intel’s co-founder. The close ties between the apartment project and Intel showcase the impact of the computer chip maker on the local growth and development in the area.
Overall, the rapid development of technology in Licking County has transformed the region into a hub for tech companies, with significant investments in infrastructure and community programs to support this growth. Microsoft’s entry into the area alongside other tech giants like Intel, Amazon, DBT New Albany, and Google signals a promising future for the technology sector in Licking County.
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https://www.nbc4i.com/news/local-news/licking-county/microsoft-confirms-building-data-centers-in-licking-county-topping-700-acres/