Creating Thousands of Jobs and Expanding Energy Infrastructure
WEST MEMPHIS, Ark. — Google has announced a multi-billion-dollar investment to establish a new AI-powered data center campus in West Memphis, Arkansas, marking one of the largest economic development projects in state history. The new facility will create hundreds of permanent operations jobs and thousands of construction jobs, accelerating economic growth across the Arkansas Delta region.
The expansive campus will span over 1,000 acres and include a state-of-the-art data center, office buildings, a dedicated substation, and advanced infrastructure to power Google’s expanding artificial intelligence and cloud computing operations.
“Google is investing in the next generation of AI innovation in Arkansas and across the country,” said Ruth Porat, President and Chief Investment Officer of Alphabet and Google. “We see AI and the energy powering it as the innovations that will define this century. The upside of AI cannot be unlocked without the energy it requires. That’s why Google is building energy capacity that protects affordability for ratepayers and creates jobs that will drive the AI-powered economy.”
Transforming Arkansas into a National Technology and Energy Hub
The project underscores Arkansas’ growing reputation as a premier destination for advanced technology investment. Google’s selection of West Memphis reflects the success of Governor Sarah Huckabee Sanders’ pro-growth policies that strengthen energy infrastructure, streamline permitting, and promote workforce development.
“Google’s multi-billion-dollar investment in West Memphis is one of the largest in our state’s history and an incredible testament to the work my administration has done to build Arkansas’ energy capacity, invest in our workforce, and streamline regulatory processes,” said Governor Sanders. “Here in the Natural State, we are providing great businesses like Google with an environment where they can innovate, expand, and invest in the hardworking people who are the backbone of our economy.”
A Major Win for West Memphis and the Delta Region
Local and state leaders joined Google executives in celebrating the project announcement
“Arkansas is a state where innovative companies can thrive, and we are proud to officially welcome Google to the Natural State,” said Clint O’Neal, Executive Director of the Arkansas Economic Development Commission (AEDC). “This data center campus will help power Google’s search and AI capabilities while driving major economic growth for our region. It’s a major win for both the State of Arkansas and the City of West Memphis.”
Entergy Arkansas played a critical role in meeting the project’s substantial power requirements. Google will fund 100% of its energy use and will expand solar generation and battery storage capacity to support clean, reliable operations.
“This partnership with Google marks a turning point for our state,” said Laura Landreaux, President and CEO of Entergy Arkansas. “We’re proud to provide the energy infrastructure that powers not only this facility but also the future of Arkansas’ economy.”
IMPACT Legislation Paves the Way for High-Tech Growth
Governor Sanders’ Arkansas IMPACT legislative package, passed in 2025, was instrumental in enabling this historic investment. The Generating Arkansas Jobs Act allows utility companies to make strategic infrastructure upgrades, while Act 548 provides sales and use tax exemptions for qualifying data centers. These measures have cut permitting times for new energy projects from up to 18 months down to just six months, positioning Arkansas as one of the most business-ready states for major industrial and technology investments.
“Today is a proud day for West Memphis and the Delta,” said Mayor Marco McClendon. “Google’s decision to invest billions here proves our city is ready to lead in the AI and digital economy. This project is about more than buildings and technology — it’s about opportunity, innovation, and a better future for our people.”
About Google
Google is a global technology leader focused on improving the way people connect, work, and access information. Through investments in artificial intelligence, cloud computing, and sustainable data infrastructure, Google continues to drive innovation that supports communities and economies around the world.
Learn more at about.google.
About the Arkansas Economic Development Commission (AEDC)
The Arkansas Economic Development Commission works to advance economic opportunity across the state by fostering business investment, job creation, and community development. A division of the Arkansas Department of Commerce, AEDC partners with global companies to make Arkansas the natural choice for success.
Visit ArkansasEDC.com for more information.
