Applied Digital confirms $3.2 billion data center campus in Brookwood

Applied Digital has officially confirmed the construction of its Delta Forge 2 AI Factory campus in Brookwood, Alabama. This confirmation follows weeks of public concern regarding environmental impact and transparency, which surfaced after Alabama’s Department of Environmental Management approved a permit application for a 2-million-square-foot data center in July. Initially, the company stated no final decision had been made.

Brookwood Mayor Joe Barger first acknowledged the proposed AI data center during a city council meeting on September 2, though at the time, no project had been signed. Applied Digital's recent announcement details a 1.26 million-square-foot facility across 160 acres within a larger 1,300-acre site. The project represents a substantial investment of over $3.2 billion from Applied Digital and its tenant, promising to create more than 1,000 construction jobs and over 100 permanent full-time roles.

The company has committed $270 million in community benefits payments to the Tuscaloosa County Economic Development Authority over two decades, in addition to educational tax contributions. These funds are slated to support local entities including Brookwood, Tuscaloosa, and Northport, Tuscaloosa County, the Tuscaloosa County Road Improvement Commission, and DCH Health System. Probate Judge Rob Robertson, Chairman of the Tuscaloosa County Commission, hailed the project as a major investment that will generate significant new revenue for local schools.

Mayor Barger expressed optimism about the project, stating it would create opportunities, strengthen schools, and position Brookwood for future growth, anticipating Applied Digital to be a long-term community partner. Despite initial questions from the public, officials expect further opportunities for community engagement, including planned town halls, to address concerns.