Data center pitched for southeast Salem's Mill Creek Corporate Center

Verrus, a California-based tech company, officially announced plans for the Oakline at Mill Creek data center project in southeast Salem, Oregon, on July 13. The $5.1 billion private investment is projected to create 75 permanent high-paying jobs in Salem, in addition to yearslong construction positions, and generate significant tax revenue for the city.

The proposal was met with mixed reactions at a recent Salem City Council meeting. Supporters highlighted the economic benefits, including job creation and contributions to the city's general fund and community livability levy. However, opponents expressed concerns regarding the data center's substantial water and electricity usage, as well as its broader environmental impact.

Salem City Manager Krishna Namburi confirmed the city had a non-disclosure agreement with Verrus since March 2025, facilitated by the Salem economic development group SEDCOR, which has since been lifted. Namburi stated that the proposed site at Turner Road and Deer Park Drive SE is already zoned for industrial use, making a data center a permitted use. She emphasized the city's role in carefully evaluating both the potential benefits and impacts to align with Salem's long-term interests and pledged to work with Verrus on a community benefits agreement. Verrus officials assert their facility is designed for low water consumption, to support the local power grid, and minimize noise, differentiating it from "legacy" data centers. The project now enters a standard planning, development, and regulatory review process.