Preparing for Data Center Development in Your Community
As digital processing and artificial intelligence (AI) use expand, the demand for computing power is increasingly being met through developing large-scale data center complexes. In response, public works staff are being asked to provide input, advise decision-makers, support public outreach, and coordinate across departments, sometimes with limited project information. The APWA Technology Committee has prepared this Data Center Development Toolbox to support public works professionals who may be involved when a data center is proposed in their community, particularly those encountering these developments for the first time or contributing to early-stage discussions.
Data Center Development Toolbox
Learn more about planning for data center development and preparing your public works organization and community in the Data Center Development Toolbox.
Key Data Center Development Considerations
The land footprint of data center complexes varies in size but will likely be larger than other developments in the community. When approached, public works professionals should ask questions about the proposed development such as:
- Site location
- Number and size of buildings
- Parking requirements
- Workforce needs for construction, operation, and maintenance
- Stormwater management
- Environmental compliance
- Electric demand and source
- Water source and usage
- Utility extensions to serve the complex
- Utility/fiber extensions from the complex
- Development construction timeframe and whether it will be phased over time