Rapides Parish AI Data Center to bring 200+ jobs
Applied Digital is building a new $3.6 billion AI data center, Delta Forge One, in Boyce, Rapides Parish, Louisiana, expected to create nearly 1,000 construction jobs and 218 direct full-time jobs. Governor Landry and CLECO CEO Bill Fontenot assure residents that the project will not lead to increased utility rates but will instead provide economic benefits and tax revenue for local services.
Governor Landry announced a new AI data center, named Delta Forge One, by Applied Digital, is coming to Boyce in Rapides Parish, Louisiana. The facility represents a $3.6 billion investment and is projected to create nearly 1,000 construction jobs and 218 permanent, full-time positions with an average salary of $90,000. Officials aim to address public concerns, particularly regarding potential impacts on utility costs for local residents.
CLECO CEO Bill Fontenot affirmed that local residents should not expect rate increases or service disruptions, explaining that the increased sales and volume from the data center will broaden the customer base, allowing costs to be spread more effectively. He described the project as a "win-win" for customers, communities, and the company, emphasizing the opportunity to moderate costs while enhancing infrastructure for reliability.
The project is also expected to provide significant tax revenue for local agencies, including the sheriff's office and the Boyce fire department, to fund improvements like road repairs and enhanced emergency services, though specific figures for revenue distribution are still being finalized.