Meta goes live with $1.2 billion AI data center in Texas
Meta has officially opened its new $1.2 billion AI data center in Temple, Texas, a 760,000-square-foot facility. The project created 1,200 construction jobs and supports 100 operational roles. Meta also emphasized its community investments and commitment to environmental sustainability regarding energy and water consumption.
Meta has officially launched its new AI data center in Temple, Texas, located on Industrial Boulevard. The facility, which commenced construction in 2022 and underwent a redesign in 2023, is now operational. Representing an investment of over $1.2 billion, the campus encompasses more than 760,000 square feet across two buildings.
According to Brad Davis, Meta's director of global economic development, the project created 1,200 skilled trade jobs during peak construction and currently supports nearly 100 permanent operational roles. Meta emphasized its commitment to community investment, having contributed $1.7 million in grants to Bell County, including a $400,000 grant announced recently for AI and STEM learning labs in schools.
Further community support includes programs at Temple College, where President Dr. Christy Ponce noted the importance of such investments for the future workforce, particularly in AI, advanced manufacturing, and global logistics.
Meta also addressed community concerns regarding data center impacts, vowing transparency on annual energy consumption and water withdrawals. The company aims for a positive impact on the local water supply by 2030, intending to return up to 5.2 million gallons more water than consumed, highlighting a focus on environmental sustainability.