Google’s planned $15 billion data center investment in Montgomery County is expected to reshape the region’s economy for decades, bringing thousands of jobs, major infrastructure improvements, expanded energy capacity and new long-term revenue for local communities.
“Google’s historic investment in Montgomery County is a testament to Missouri’s growing reputation as a premier destination for innovation and next-generation technology,” Gov. Mike Kehoe said.
The project, announced for New Florence, marks one of the largest economic development investments in Missouri history and further positions the state as a growing center for technology and innovation.
State and local leaders said the impact of the project will extend far beyond the data center itself. Along with hundreds of permanent operational positions, the development is expected to create thousands of construction jobs and spur additional employment across a range of industries.
Google officials said every direct job created at one of its data centers supports nearly nine additional jobs in the local economy, including positions in construction, HVAC repair, maintenance, landscaping, logistics and other support services.
“The Missouri Chamber is proud of the work we have done in the Capitol to help Missouri secure historic economic development projects like this,” said Karen Buschmann, executive director of the Missouri Chamber Foundation. “Google’s commitment will help create new opportunities for businesses, workers, and communities across Missouri while strengthening the infrastructure needed to support long-term economic growth.”
The investment is also expected to generate long-term tax revenue that local officials say will benefit schools, public safety, infrastructure, and other community priorities for years to come.
“Our community has worked strategically to prepare for transformational investment opportunities like this, and now that vision is becoming a reality,” said Brent Speight, chairman of the Greater Montgomery County Economic Development Council.
Beyond economic development, the project is expected to significantly expand Missouri’s energy infrastructure.
Google announced it has contracted for more than one gigawatt (GW) of new electricity generation capacity in Missouri and is supporting the development of more than 500 megawatts (MW) of additional capacity through its partnership with Ameren Missouri.
Company officials said the investment is designed not only to meet the demands of the new facility but also to strengthen the long-term reliability and affordability of the state’s electrical grid.
Google worked with Ameren and Evergy to bring the Capacity Commitment Framework (CCF) to Missouri, a policy designed to ensure large energy users pay for their electricity and infrastructure needs while protecting residential customers from additional costs.
“This is the largest economic development project in Ameren Missouri’s service territory,” said Martin J. Lyons Jr., chairman, president, and chief executive officer of Ameren Corporation. “Our new large-load rate structure is designed to ensure we continue to deliver safe, reliable electric service for all customers at the lowest cost possible.”
Google leaders said workforce development will also be a central focus of the investment, with efforts aimed at preparing Missourians for careers in skilled trades and technical fields.
“Google’s investment in Missouri reflects a broader commitment to expanding opportunity through technology,” said Ruth Porat, president and chief investment officer of Alphabet and Google. “By investing in workforce development, technical training and energy affordability initiatives, we’re helping prepare thousands of Missourians for high-demand careers while supporting long-term economic growth across the state.”
