Tech giant Google has unveiled plans for a $15 billion infrastructure investment in Missouri, with a key focus on developing a state-of-the-art data center in New Florence, located in Montgomery County. This significant financial commitment is set to boost the state’s technology landscape and energy infrastructure.
At the heart of Google’s Missouri expansion is the planned data center campus, designated under the codename "Project Spade." The facility, situated on a massive 934-acre site in New Florence, will include two buildings with approximately 800,000 square feet of floor space. The data center is projected to have a capacity of 1.2GW, making it a cornerstone of Google’s broader investments in the region.
In line with sustainability efforts, the data center will utilize a closed-loop, air-cooled system to minimize water usage, reserving it for domestic needs. Construction is expected to commence in 2026 and will generate approximately 2,000 construction jobs.
Google is also partnering with Ameren to enhance Missouri’s energy infrastructure, committing to bring 500MW of new power capacity to the state’s grid. This builds on the 1GW of energy capacity that Google has already contracted in Missouri. Additionally, the company is working with Evergy to implement a Capacity Commitment Framework (CCF). This framework ensures that large energy users, including Google, pay for their electricity needs while safeguarding local ratepayers from increased costs.
Ruth Porat, president and chief investment officer of Alphabet and Google, emphasized the broader benefits of the investment, stating, "We look forward to expanding Google’s investments in Missouri and helping Missourians benefit from the next wave of American innovation. To deliver the upside of technology, we are investing in workforce development and energy affordability, both directly and through our partnerships with local organizations. This commitment will provide thousands of Missourians with valuable technical and trade skills, while supporting energy affordability for residents in Montgomery County and across the state."
Missouri Governor Mike Kehoe also expressed optimism about the initiative, commenting, "Google’s historic investment in Montgomery County is a testament to Missouri’s growing reputation as a premier destination for innovation and next-generation technology. Beyond the significant economic impact and job creation, Google has demonstrated a true commitment to strengthening the community through local partnerships, investments, grants, and support for area businesses. This project represents more than infrastructure - it’s an investment in Missouri families, communities, and long-term opportunity. We are proud to partner with companies like Google that are helping drive economic growth while making a meaningful difference in the communities they call home."
Google’s footprint in Missouri extends beyond New Florence. The company is also developing data center projects in Kansas City under the codenames "Project Kestrel", "Project Shale", and "Project Micah." These initiatives further reflect Missouri’s emergence as a key destination for technology investment.
New Florence, located between Columbia and St. Louis, is not commonly associated with data center hubs. However, the region is quickly gaining attention from major tech companies. Earlier this year, Amazon Web Services explored plans for a 1,000-acre campus nearby in Montgomery County, underscoring the area’s growing appeal for large-scale technology infrastructure.
Google’s $15 billion commitment represents a transformative investment for Missouri, promising significant economic benefits, job creation, and advancements in energy sustainability. The project reflects the state’s increasing prominence as a hub for innovation and technology.
