Louisiana Lands $12 Billion Amazon Data Center Deal

(KNGT-FM) - Louisiana just landed one of the biggest economic deals in state history, and it’s coming with billions of dollars and hundreds of new jobs. Amazon is planning to build a massive data center, but what will it really do, and how will it affect Louisiana residents? We're giving you everything to know...

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Amazon Investing $12B in Louisiana Data Centers

On Monday, it was announced that Amazon Web Services (AWS) says it will spend $12 billion to build new data center campuses in the state. These centers will help power cloud computing and artificial intelligence (AI). The new campuses will be built in Caddo Parish and Bossier Parish in the northwest part of the state.

The company is also working with STACK Infrastructure to build the campuses. During construction, the project could support up to 1,500 construction jobs.

Construction is expected to begin soon. The centers will open in phases over the next few years.

Louisiana Governor Jeff Landry Comments

Louisiana Governor Jeff Landry said Amazon chose Louisiana because the state has strong workers, good power systems, and great locations for big projects.

“Amazon is making a long-term commitment to Louisiana because our state delivers — prime sites, strong infrastructure and a skilled, hard-working workforce ready to support the next generation of technological innovation,” Louisiana Governor Jeff Landry said. “Investments of this magnitude put Louisiana at the center of operations relied on across the country and connect our communities to jobs that power how Americans live, work and do business.”

How will this affect Louisiana residents?

In the long term, it appears this project could bring more high-paying jobs and boost local businesses as workers spend money in the community. It may also increase tax revenue to help fund schools, roads, and public services. Some residents have already voiced their concerns about power and water use. Amazon says it will pay for needed upgrades.

The project is expected to create 540 full-time jobs at the data centers.