WEST MEMPHIS, Ark. — Google has officially confirmed plans to build a major data center campus in West Memphis, a move local leaders say will bring unprecedented economic growth and infrastructure improvements to the region.
In a joint statement with Entergy Arkansas, the company said construction is already underway. While the project cost has not yet been disclosed, Google confirmed it will cover all energy costs associated with powering the facility, with renewable energy and advanced storage solutions playing a central role.
"We look forward to engaging with the West Memphis community and will be sharing more details soon," said Laurel Brown, Google’s Regional Head of Data Center Public Affairs.
Officials said the company is exploring solar power options, battery storage, and other efficient energy sources to strengthen the local grid while reducing environmental impacts.
The announcement was celebrated by both state and local leaders.
“We’re proud to be partnering with Google on this exciting new project, bringing unprecedented economic opportunity to Arkansas," said Laura Landreaux, President and CEO of Entergy Arkansas. "Our work to transform the power we provide is playing a key role in enabling the vision the Governor and the General Assembly established to become a national leader in economic development for the benefit of all Arkansans. Together, we’re powering growth and building a stronger, more vibrant future for the next generation. Google’s investment in Arkansas will stimulate economic growth in Northeast Arkansas and across the state, and we’re pleased to welcome Google to Arkansas."
West Memphis Mayor Marco McClendon added that the project is a milestone for the city’s growing reputation as a hub for innovation.
“We are excited to welcome Google to the West Memphis winning streak. For over a year, we’ve been working closely with Google to bring this project to life. During that time, we’ve worked to ensure that our shared values around air quality and water were met. Together, we will keep West Memphis and the surrounding region’s environment a top priority. This project shows the confidence one of the world’s leading technology companies has in our city. Today’s announcement highlights West Memphis’s growing role as a hub for innovation and economic development.
We appreciate Google’s commitment to sustainability through their partnership with Entergy, covering energy costs and adding solar, battery storage, and flexible power solutions to keep our grid strong. This project brings real long lasting benefits to our West Memphis families, more jobs, better infrastructure, and a brighter future.”
City leaders also confirmed that West Memphis Utilities will provide electricity, water, and wastewater services to support the project. Officials stressed that reliable infrastructure is central to ensuring the data center’s long-term success.
While Google has not released details on the number of jobs the project will create, large-scale data centers of this kind typically generate hundreds of direct high-tech jobs and support thousands more through construction contracts, local suppliers, and secondary economic activity.
The announcement also underscores a growing trend: tech companies investing in the Mid-South for digital infrastructure expansion. With West Memphis already working to modernize its utilities and roadways, the project is expected to accelerate both economic development and regional innovation.
Originally reported by Terrance Davis in Local Membhis.
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