Image courtesy of Google

By MATT SMITHMIER

NEW FLORENCE, Mo. – A little more than a year after opening for business, the Heart of America Mega Site in Montgomery County, Mo., landed its first major tenant: a $15 billion investment from Google.

The tech giant is investing in infrastructure and a data center – and nearly $25 billion more in equipment in New Florence, Mo., about 70 miles west of St. Louis near the junction of Interstate 70 and Missouri Route 19.

Google has so far contracted to bring more than one gigawatt of new generation capacity to the state, and through its partnership with Ameren is supporting the development of more than 500 megawatts of additional capacity. The project is expected to create thousands of jobs in the county, according to Google, along with partnerships with state and local organizations to increase energy affordability and job training.

“This project will deliver lasting economic benefits through new investment, support for local businesses, and meaningful community partnerships that help create opportunities for Missourians,” said Michelle Hataway, director of the Missouri Dept. of Economic Development. “Google’s commitment to community engagement, workforce development and local initiatives demonstrates the type of corporate partnership that helps communities grow and prosper.”

The mega site was developed through a partnership between county leaders and the economic development team at Springline Advisory Kansas City, led by Steve Etcher. He says efforts continue to attract additional investments – including a large-scale manufacturing and distribution center and more to the 5,000-acre site.