Project Overview
This confidential Midwest hyperscale data center campus is designed to deliver exceptional speed, 880 megawatts of capacity, and reliability for mission-critical cloud, AI, and big data workloads. The six-building campus combines high-density compute systems, advanced cooling, automation, and resilient power and network infrastructure to support continuous global digital operations.
Key Takeaways:
- Advanced Campus Systems: Integrated power, cooling, connectivity, and prefabricated systems support the campus’s technical requirements.
- Economic Engine: In addition to generating millions of dollars in property taxes annually, every single direct data center position creates 6 additional local jobs including maintenance, security, the construction trades and more.
- Safety and Sustainability Recognition: The project was honored with a safety and sustainability award, highlighting the team’s commitment to responsible, forward-thinking construction practices.
- Good Neighbor: Our rural location provides an expansive natural buffer. Additionally, data center buildings are strategically positioned to ensure sound dissipates at the perimeter, preserving the peace and quiet of the surrounding area.
- End-to-End Delivery Scope: Mortenson’s work spans feasibility, site preparation, core and shell, fit out, electrical distribution, substations, and network infrastructure.
- Team-Driven Execution: The campus came to life through the commitment, shared vision, and daily problem-solving of the entire project team, a contribution applauded by Campus Director Chris Zech.
- Delivery Method
-
Design Build / Engineer, Procure and Construct
- Additional Project Facts
-
Estimated Completion Date: 2028
Number of Buildings: 5
Rising in the heartland of America, this hyperscale data center campus is an engine of global digital infrastructure—connecting people, data, and innovation across the world. Engineered for exceptional speed, capacity, and reliability, the six-building campus spans hundreds of thousands of square feet and is designed to deliver 880 megawatts of capacity. With robust, redundant systems for power, cooling, and network connectivity, this hub offers superior reliability and performance, ensuring continuous operation for mission-critical applications ranging from cloud computing and AI to big data analytics.
One of the defining features of this build is its immense earthwork scope—nearly 11 million cubic yards of soil have been moved to shape the full campus. The project was recently honored with a safety and sustainability award—underscoring a deep commitment to responsible, forward-thinking construction practices.
The data center integrates the latest advancements in technology and innovation, including high-density compute systems, cutting-edge cooling solutions, and advanced automation to optimize performance and energy efficiency. Every detail, from modular build strategies to precision MEP (mechanical, electrical, and plumbing) execution, reflects our commitment to operational excellence and future-ready design.
coordination, teamwork, and commitment from hundreds of skilled craftspeople and partners working together every day. What ultimately made this endeavor successful wasn't technology, but the unwavering commitment, the shared vision, and the tireless dedication of every single person on this team, who showed up, solving problems and pushing boundaries together.
Did You Know?
Clean Energy Dedication: This hyperscale data center facility is dedicated to matching 100% of the power consumed by its offices and data centers with electricity, while actively investing in and strengthening the shared local energy grid.
Water Usage: By combining conservation practices with innovative technologies, this data center campus is dedicated to replenishing more water than it consumes by 2030.
Community Partnership with a Lasting Impact
Beyond digital innovation, this project is designed to be a deeply rooted community partner. Mortenson and its partners are committed to creating jobs, stimulating the local economy, and investing directly in the people and places that host this landmark facility.
Local Investment & Engagement
- Direct Support for Community Priorities: Active financial and volunteer support for local literacy centers, K-12 school programs, blood drives, animal shelters, and regional charity centers who invest in local community members
- Grassroots Collaboration: Building transparent, long-term relationships with community organizations, local leaders, and nonprofit partners to ensure the project remains a good neighbor.
The Economic Ripple Effect
The economic benefits extend far beyond the campus perimeter. In addition to generating millions of dollars in property taxes annually, every single direct data center position creates six additional jobs across the local community in fields including maintenance, security, the construction trades and more.
The result is a project built not just to power the modern digital world, but to foster a stronger, more resilient, and more prosperous local community for generations to come.
Mortenson’s scope of work includes:
- Site Grading and Preparation: Grade and prep sites for construction, including earthwork, drainage, and erosion control
- Offsite Improvements: Bring utilities and infrastructure to the site, build roads, and prep for development
- Modular and Prefab Solutions: Offsite build of electrical, modular, and MEP systems to speed up delivery
- Data Center Core and Shell Construction: Construct the structural shell, including foundation, walls, roof, and basic utilities
- Data Center Fit Out: Complete interiors with power, cooling, IT, security, and MEP systems
- Site Electrical Distribution: Build medium voltage systems, ductbanks, and grounding with utility coordination
- Substation Construction: Procure and build substations and transmission systems to meet power needs
- Network ISP and OSP: Install fiber, ductbanks, and cabling for full connectivity