Construction underway on six-building Claude data center

Google and Crusoe recently held an open house in Claude, Texas, providing Armstrong County residents with updates on their ongoing six-building data center project, codenamed Project Llano. Representatives, including Jeremy Bachrach, senior director of development at Crusoe, detailed construction timelines, with the first buildings expected to be transferred to Google by early 2027 and full completion by the end of that year.

The project emphasizes sustainable practices, featuring a closed-loop cooling system that recirculates water for up to 15 years, significantly reducing ongoing water consumption compared to evaporative cooling methods. Operational water use for each building is estimated at about 2 million gallons per year, equivalent to 16 households. The data center will primarily draw power from the nearby Goodnight 1 and 2 wind farms, with the ERCOT grid serving as a backup.

Bachrach acknowledged community impacts such as increased traffic during the construction phase, which currently employs over 7,500 workers. Once operational, Google has committed to creating 50 permanent jobs, with efforts to ensure local businesses and residents benefit from direct and indirect employment opportunities. Austin Hutchinson of Google's community and workforce development also highlighted plans to support community infrastructure, including public safety, healthcare, and education.

Officials estimate Project Llano could generate over $850 million in local tax revenue over its lifespan, averaging $28 million annually, which Claude ISD Superintendent Brent Kirkland noted would significantly benefit local schools and emergency services. Kirkland praised the open house for allowing residents to receive direct, accountable information, addressing common rumors and misconceptions about the substantial development.