New state proposal could bring data centers to the Mat-Su as part of industrial park
A new state proposal in Alaska could lead to a large industrial park, including data centers, in the Matanuska-Susitna Valley near Houston. The plan involves transferring 30 square miles of state land to the Alaska Industrial Development and Export Authority (AIDEA). The proposal outlines potential environmental impacts, and public comment is currently open.
The State of Alaska is considering a proposal that could lead to a new large-scale industrial park, potentially including data centers, in the Matanuska-Susitna Valley, near the city of Houston. The plan involves the Alaska Department of Natural Resources transferring a 30-square-mile parcel of land to the Alaska Industrial Development and Export Authority (AIDEA) through a noncompetitive sale. Randy Ruaro, AIDEA Executive Director, stated that no firm plans have been made for the land, but proposed use cases include a logistics hub, energy and utility corridors, and data centers.
This initiative is part of a broader effort to expand Alaska's data center footprint, as the state currently has only eight data centers, one of the lowest counts nationally. A previous proposal in May sought $500 million for a data center project on the North Slope.
The preliminary decision for the Houston site also highlights several predicted impacts from its potential construction. These include the loss of public access to state land, adverse effects on surface water resources, and impacts on fish and wildlife populations in the area.
The public has an opportunity to submit comments on this proposal, reflecting ongoing stakeholder engagement regarding the future development of the region.