New Data Center: Gov. Kehoe, Missouri, Celebrate Google Investment As Major Economic Boost

Kehoe and state development officials say the New Florence project could bring lasting gains for businesses, workers, and families.

May 20, 2026 6:36 PM May 21, 2026 8:13 AM

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NEW FLORENCE, MO. - Google announced Wednesday, May 20, 2026, a $15 billion investment to build a data center in New Florence, Mo., a project state officials said will create thousands of jobs, expand local infrastructure capacity, and support energy affordability programs in Montgomery County and beyond.

The planned facility will be built in Montgomery County in New Florence, about 20 miles west of Warrenton along Interstate 70, next to an approved $35 billion data center run by Amazon, according to the announcement.

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Google said its data centers act as economic engines, with each direct position generating nearly nine additional local roles, including work in specialized construction, highway, ventilation and air conditioning repair, maintenance, and landscaping.

At a community celebration on Wednesday in Montgomery County, Gov. Mike Kehoe welcomed the project as a sign of Missouri’s standing in innovation and technology and pointed to what he described as Google’s broader commitment to local communities.

“Google’s historic investment in Montgomery County is a testament to Missouri’s growing reputation as a premier destination for innovation and next-generation technology,” Kehoe said. “Beyond the significant economic impact and job creation, Google has demonstrated a true commitment to strengthening the community through local partnerships, investments, grants, and support for area businesses."

Google's project will encompass 900 acres and Amazon's 1,000 acres.

“This project represents more than infrastructure — it’s an investment in Missouri families, communities, and long-term opportunity. We are proud to partner with companies like Google that are helping drive economic growth while making a meaningful difference in the communities they call home.”

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Google said the investment is intended to responsibly increase local infrastructure capacity, expand energy affordability programs, and fund thousands of jobs in the region.

Ruth Porat, president and chief investment officer of Alphabet and Google, said the company plans to pair the infrastructure investment with workforce and energy initiatives.

“We look forward to expanding Google’s investments in Missouri and helping Missourians benefit from the next wave of American innovation,” Porat said in a statement. “To deliver the upside of technology, we are investing in workforce development and energy affordability, both directly and through our partnerships with local organizations. This commitment will provide thousands of Missourians with valuable technical and trade skills, while supporting energy affordability for residents in Montgomery County and across the state.”

Missouri Department of Economic Development Director Michelle Hataway also said the project would bring long-term economic benefits.

“This project will deliver lasting economic benefits through new investment, support for local businesses, and meaningful community partnerships that help create opportunities for Missourians,” Hataway said.

According to the provided project details, the development is expected to create thousands of construction jobs during buildout and hundreds of direct long-term operational jobs once the facility begins operating.

As part of its workforce efforts, Google said it is collaborating with the Construction Laborers and Contractors Joint Training Fund of Eastern Missouri to support the Laborers and Contractors Training Center. The company said the project will allow the center to train more than 2,300 construction laborers, including 1,500 apprentices, over the next two years.

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