Garland, Texas, Reflects on Long-Standing Data Center Industry and Community Dialogue
Garland, Texas, has been home to major data center operations for years, including facilities from Stream Data Centers, NTT Global Data Centers, Digital Realty, and an upcoming development by Prime Data Centers. The article discusses the economic benefits these centers bring, such as private investment and tax contributions, alongside community concerns regarding electricity and water usage. It emphasizes Garland's unique position to engage in dialogue with data center companies due to its long-standing experience with the industry.
Garland, Texas, has a well-established data center presence, contrary to the perception that these facilities are a new phenomenon in North Texas, according to a recent article by Rita Cook for Texas Metro News. The city hosts significant operations from companies like Stream Data Centers, NTT Global Data Centers, and Digital Realty, with Prime Data Centers currently adding a new, substantial development involving three buildings.
While data centers are known for their considerable demands for electricity and water, requiring extensive infrastructure and large physical footprints, they also represent billions in private investment. These facilities generate construction jobs, contribute to the commercial tax base, and are crucial for supporting the digital economy, from banking and shopping to communications and artificial intelligence.
The article highlights Garland's advantage in this ongoing conversation: its years of experience with data centers. This history allows residents a deeper understanding of operations and impacts, positioning the community to engage in informed discussions about how data centers can be