Project Azalea DRI report: Data center could bring $1B value, 125 jobs to McDuffie County

A Development of Regional Impact (DRI) report for Project Azalea, a planned data center in McDuffie County, Georgia, has been completed by the CSRA Regional Commission. The report estimates the project could be worth approximately $1 billion once fully built out and generate around $25 million annually in local revenue. Additionally, it projects the creation of 125 full-time permanent jobs after construction. The DRI report indicates that the 200-acre data center site could affect 18 different parties outside of McDuffie County, including Fort Gordon, Augusta, Richmond County, Jefferson County, and Columbia County. However, the report does not delve into the specific environmental impacts or the effects on surrounding communities. Neighbors voiced their questions and concerns to county leaders and developers regarding the project. The McDuffie County Planning Commission has already recommended the project for approval. The county commission is scheduled to vote on the project at an upcoming meeting. The site is located in an area designated as countryside character by the McDuffie County Comprehensive Plan.