In a bold move that could reshape the construction landscape, New Mexico has inked a deal with BorderPlex Digital Assets, positioning itself as a pioneer in digital infrastructure. This isn’t just about laying down fiber optics; it’s about integrating power, water, advanced manufacturing, and data centers to create a holistic ecosystem that supports the technology of tomorrow. With 1,000 jobs on the horizon and a projected $5 billion in construction spending over the next decade, this partnership isn’t just an economic boon—it’s a call to action for the construction industry to think bigger and bolder.
The BorderPlex Digital Infrastructure Campus in Santa Teresa isn’t your average data center farm. It’s an integrated hub that combines utility and microgrid power generation, water treatment, industrial cooling, and computing infrastructure all in one location. This kind of integration is a game-changer, pushing the boundaries of what we typically consider “infrastructure.” It’s a model that other states and countries might soon emulate, sparking a global shift towards more integrated and sustainable digital infrastructure projects.
“This groundbreaking partnership further cements our reputation as a national leader in advanced manufacturing and global trade,” Gov. Michelle Lujan Grisham announced. And indeed, it does more than that. It signals a future where construction isn’t just about buildings, but about creating comprehensive, interconnected systems that power entire communities. The ripple effects are vast—boosting employment, driving new investment, and growing the region’s tax base.
The campus, targeting data-heavy technology companies and trade-centric businesses, will also see significant investments in IT and manufacturing equipment. This isn’t just about job creation; it’s about fostering a new kind of workforce, one that is adept at navigating the complexities of digital infrastructure. As Rob Black, EDD Secretary-Designate, puts it, “The BorderPlex Digital Infrastructure Campus will have a ripple effect across Southern New Mexico and the border region.”
BorderPlex Digital’s partnership with El Paso Electric and Orion Digital Infrastructure highlights the critical role of energy in this new frontier. By collaborating with power providers, the project ensures that the infrastructure is not just powerful but also reliable and efficient. “This partnership reflects El Paso Electric’s commitment to powering the region’s future,” said Kelly Tomblin, El Paso Electric President and CEO. It’s a commitment that goes beyond providing electricity; it’s about creating a model for economic development that other regions can aspire to.
Sustainability is also at the heart of this project. BorderPlex Digital is exploring water management solutions with New Mexico State University and EPCOR, ensuring that the campus is not just technologically advanced but also environmentally responsible. “NMSU is a nationally recognized leader in brackish water research and development,” said NMSU President Valerio Ferme. This collaboration underscores the growing importance of sustainable practices in construction, pushing the industry to innovate in areas like water management and renewable energy.
The potential impact on local infrastructure is equally significant. BorderPlex Digital’s plans to pilot cutting-edge road construction technologies could revolutionize how we build and maintain our transportation networks. This isn’t just about better roads; it’s about creating more resilient and sustainable urban environments.
As we look to the future, the BorderPlex Digital Infrastructure Campus serves as a beacon of what’s possible. It’s a call to the construction industry to think beyond the immediate project, to consider the broader ecosystem, and to integrate sustainability at every step. This partnership could very well shape the development of the sector, pushing it towards a future that is not just more digital, but also more interconnected, sustainable, and human-centric. The question now is, who will follow New Mexico’s lead?
