City of Van Wert and QTS Announce Data Center Campus in Northwest Ohio

The City of Van Wert and QTS Data Centers have unveiled plans for a new data center campus in Northwest Ohio, representing an estimated $10 billion capital investment. The project is projected to generate $200 million in tax revenue over two decades, create over 1,500 construction jobs, and establish 200 full-time positions once operational. The 902-acre campus will feature up to seven data center buildings.

A key aspect of the development is its commitment to sustainability and community engagement. QTS will fully fund energy infrastructure improvements in partnership with American Electric Power, with no cost passed to local ratepayers, and these upgrades are also expected to modernize the local grid. Furthermore, the campus will employ a closed-loop cooling system that consumes no water, a significant departure from traditional data center cooling methods. Brent Stevens, Executive Director of Van Wert Area Economic Development, highlighted the importance of QTS's water-saving technology and their use of components from Danfoss, a company with local ties.

QTS has also pledged to establish a community betterment fund for Van Wert, focusing investments on education, workforce development, public safety, and community amenities. An initial $100,000 investment will support the Vantage Career Center for technical training opportunities. Rick Turner, Superintendent of Vantage Career Center, expressed excitement for the partnership's educational and economic possibilities. Co-CEOs of QTS, Tag Greason and David Robey, emphasized their long-term commitment to being a responsible and engaged neighbor in Van Wert. The project includes plans for ongoing public engagement, including a community event at Vantage Career Center.