Prime site: AWS announces U.S. 61 site for Vicksburg data center

Amazon Web Services (AWS) officially announced the location for its new data center campus in Warren County, Mississippi, during a Vicksburg-Warren County Chamber of Commerce luncheon. The facility, known as the "U.S. 61 South Warren" site, will be situated along U.S. Highway 61 with its main entrance off Old Cain Ridge Road, and has already begun early construction activities. Roger Wehner, AWS Vice President of Economic Development, stated that the decision to invest in Vicksburg followed an extensive eight-year evaluation process in Mississippi and six years of engagement with Vicksburg officials. He praised the local workforce, infrastructure, and the rare level of cooperation between city and county leadership, noting that these factors were critical to AWS's long-term investment strategy. The project is projected to generate at least 200 full-time positions, with average annual wages between $70,000 and $80,000, and an additional 300 regional jobs. During peak construction, up to 1,250 workers are expected on site. AWS plans an initial $3 million infrastructure investment and aims to prioritize local hiring and contracting, drawing on its experience in Madison County, Mississippi. Wehner also addressed community concerns regarding environmental impact, explaining that AWS's modeling for Mississippi facilities anticipates water usage for cooling only about 9 percent of the year, primarily during peak summer months. He emphasized the company's commitment to high efficiency and, in some cases, recycled water or waterless cooling systems. Regarding energy, Wehner confirmed AWS pays the full cost of its energy consumption and related infrastructure, mentioning the new Vicksburg Advanced Power Station. He assured residents that AWS would work to minimize construction disruptions and highlighted the long-term benefits of the project, including tax revenue, jobs, and infrastructure. Additionally, AWS has established an initial $150,000 Warren County Community Fund to support STEM education and workforce development.