Amazon Web Services (AWS) is setting the stage for a significant expansion in Central Ohio with plans to erect a $2 billion data center campus in Sunbury, a move that underscores the region’s burgeoning status as a tech hub. This latest investment will elevate AWS’s total footprint in the state to a staggering $10 billion. Situated at 11793 Vans Valley Road within the Sunbury Business and Technology Park, the initial phase will kick off with a 450,000 square foot building, slated to break ground in January 2028 and reach completion by December 2034.
Roger Wehner, AWS’s VP of economic development, emphasized the company’s commitment to Ohio, stating, “Our newest investment in Sunbury builds on our strong partnership with the community and the state, and our ongoing investment will help continue to foster innovation, nurture the next generation of talent, and expand on the fantastic partnerships we have across the Buckeye state.” This sentiment reflects a broader trend where major tech players are not just seeking to establish data centers but are also keen on cultivating local ecosystems that support innovation and workforce development.
The Sunbury City Council has already rolled out the welcome mat, approving an economic development package that includes a 30-year community reinvestment area incentive. This package offers a hefty property tax exemption for the assessed value of each building constructed on the site—87.5% for the first 15 years and 75% for the subsequent 15 years. Such incentives are crucial in attracting large-scale investments, particularly in a competitive landscape where municipalities vie for tech giants’ attention.
AWS’s move comes on the heels of a broader trend in Central Ohio, where the data center market is heating up. The state has become a magnet for tech investments, with companies like Microsoft also announcing plans for substantial data center campuses. Microsoft’s commitment of $1 billion reinforces the notion that Ohio is becoming a go-to destination for data center operators. Other heavyweights like Google, Meta, and CyrusOne are already in the mix, indicating a robust and growing industry presence.
As AWS and its competitors ramp up their investments, the implications for local economies are profound. Not only do these developments promise job creation, but they also signal a shift in the economic landscape, positioning Ohio as a pivotal player in the tech infrastructure arena. The infusion of capital and resources will likely spur the growth of ancillary businesses, from construction to tech services, creating a ripple effect that benefits the community at large.
The question now is how this influx of investment will shape the future of the construction sector in Ohio. With large-scale projects on the horizon, construction firms will need to adapt to new demands and expectations, particularly concerning sustainability and efficiency. The construction methodologies employed will likely evolve, incorporating advanced technologies to meet the needs of these high-tech facilities.
As AWS and others continue to lay down their stakes, the narrative of Central Ohio as a burgeoning tech hub is becoming clearer. This is more than just a series of data centers; it’s about building a community that thrives on innovation, collaboration, and economic resilience. The future looks bright for both AWS and the local economy, as they embark on this exciting journey together.
