Data center construction boots Lauderdale County economy
Construction of an eight-building data campus in Lauderdale County, Mississippi, is significantly boosting the local economy. More than 1,050 workers are currently on-site, generating an estimated daily economic impact of over $259,000 through spending on hotels, meals, shopping, and fuel. This project, representing a $10 billion investment, is also expected to create 300 permanent jobs.
Construction for an eight-building data campus in Meridian, Mississippi's I-20/59 industrial park, is generating substantial economic activity in Lauderdale County. As of Tuesday, more than 1,050 workers were on site, contributing an estimated $259,087.50 in daily economic impact through their spending.
Data from Visit Meridian highlights that the average data center worker spends $246.75 per day on expenses such as meals, shopping, fuel, and hotel rooms. This surge in activity has led to a 19.5% increase in total hotel revenue and an 11.4% rise in occupancy rates compared to the previous year.
The project, which involves constructing eight data centers, each approximately 250,000 square feet, represents roughly $10 billion in total investment for Lauderdale County. Work has commenced on the first two buildings, with the initial building expected to be completed by the end of the year. In addition to the current construction workforce, the campus is projected to create an estimated 300 permanent jobs upon completion.