Kansas City, Missouri, February 13, 2026

Google’s substantial investment in Kansas City with the construction of its second data center campus, Project Mica, is set to amplify the region’s technological infrastructure. This $10 billion initiative aims to foster economic growth by creating skilled jobs and supporting local workforce development. With nearly 500 acres dedicated to the new campus, the move signals Kansas City’s evolution into a pivotal tech hub while enhancing the economy through collaboration between private enterprises and local authorities.

Kansas City

Google Accelerates KC’s Tech Future with Second Data Center Campus

Kansas City’s economic landscape is evolving with the groundbreaking construction of Google’s second significant data center campus, a monumental investment poised to amplify the region’s technological infrastructure and foster robust economic expansion.

The spirit of entrepreneurial innovation and strategic private investment continues to drive significant growth within Kansas City, Missouri. This latest development from a global technology leader underscores a confident commitment to the area’s burgeoning tech sector. Such ventures not only inject substantial capital but also cultivate an environment ripe for further technological advancement, skilled job creation, and broader economic resilience.

For entrepreneurs and established businesses alike, these investments signal a marketplace increasingly equipped to support the demands of the digital age. They highlight the enduring benefits of a supportive local environment that encourages large-scale private sector projects, contributing to a dynamic and competitive regional economy.

A Monumental Investment in Digital Infrastructure

Google has confirmed the development of its second data center campus in Kansas City, a project known as Project Mica, representing an investment of up to $10 billion. This expansive campus is located in Kansas City’s Northland, specifically near the intersection of Interstate 435 and U.S. Highway 169 in Clay County. The site encompasses nearly 500 acres and is planned to feature five hyperscale data center buildings, collectively offering approximately 1.56 million square feet of computing space. Construction on this campus is already actively underway.

This initiative stands as one of the largest technology infrastructure investments in the history of the Kansas City metropolitan area, solidifying the region’s position as a critical hub for digital operations.

Fostering Economic Growth and Workforce Opportunities

The substantial investment from Google is expected to generate significant economic activity across Kansas City. The earlier announced $1 billion data center, Google’s first in Missouri, located in the Hunt Midwest Business Center, is anticipated to support up to 1,300 jobs. Including construction and logistics operations, the total “halo of jobs” associated with this initial facility is projected to exceed 1,400 positions. While specific operational job numbers for Project Mica are not yet detailed, the scale of this $10 billion development strongly implies a considerable demand for skilled labor and local services throughout its construction and operational phases, further bolstering the Kansas City economy.

Google has demonstrated a commitment to local workforce development by committing $1.5 million to the Smithville School District and an additional $250,000 to the Northland Career Center. Furthermore, the company is expanding its Skilled Trades and Readiness (STAR) program to the Kansas City area, focusing on increasing the entry-level pipeline in skilled trades, with an emphasis on underrepresented communities.

Strategic Location and Reliable Infrastructure

Kansas City’s appeal as a prime location for such large-scale technological investments is rooted in its strategic advantages. The city offers available land and a talented workforce, making it an attractive destination for major tech companies. Its central U.S. location provides significant logistical value for data transmission. The region boasts a robust digital backbone, supported by over 5.5 million miles of fiber optic cable and serviced by 11 of the top 13 long-haul fiber providers in the United States.

Ensuring the operational demands of these facilities, the Project Mica campus is designed to draw nearly 700 megawatts of power. Google has established a long-term agreement with Evergy, the region’s primary electricity provider, to cover the full energy costs for both of its Kansas City data center campuses. The first data center is slated to run on 400 megawatts of new, carbon-free power.

Local Support and Incentives for Private Investment

The realization of projects like Project Mica often involves collaborative efforts between private enterprise and local governmental bodies. The Port Authority of Kansas City (Port KC) has authorized up to $10 billion in taxable revenue bonds to support Project Mica. These bonds include long-term property tax exemptions and sales tax exemptions for construction materials, alongside other incentives designed to facilitate this significant private investment. Such measures demonstrate a proactive approach by local authorities to create an environment conducive to major corporate expansion, attracting companies that drive job creation and enhance the regional tax base.

These partnerships highlight how strategic cooperation can pave the way for advancements in tech infrastructure, benefiting the broader Kansas City MO business community.

The Digital Age and Future Prospects

The expansion of data centers in Kansas City is largely driven by the escalating global demand for digital services and the rapid advancements in artificial intelligence. These facilities are critical for powering everyday digital services, including Google Cloud, Workspace, Search, and Maps, which are utilized by individuals and organizations worldwide. The increasing reliance on AI and cloud computing necessitates robust infrastructure, making Kansas City a key player in supporting this technological evolution.

With these substantial investments, Kansas City is reinforcing its status as a vital hub for innovation, contributing to the future of technology and economic opportunity for Missouri MO entrepreneurs and beyond.

The ongoing development of Google’s second data center campus in Kansas City represents a powerful testament to the city’s growing appeal as a nexus for technological advancement and substantial private investment. This multi-billion-dollar project, alongside Google’s existing commitments, is set to further energize the Kansas City economy through job creation, workforce development, and enhanced digital infrastructure. It underscores the importance of a favorable business climate and strategic community engagement in attracting projects that deliver lasting benefits. Residents and local businesses are encouraged to stay engaged with these developments, exploring how they can contribute to and benefit from Kansas City’s evolving economic landscape. Supporting local enterprises and participating in community initiatives remain crucial as Kansas City continues its trajectory as a leading center for innovation and prosperity.

Frequently Asked Questions About Google’s Data Center Campuses in Kansas City

What is Google’s total investment in data centers in Kansas City?

Google has confirmed an investment of up to $10 billion for its second data center campus, Project Mica, in Kansas City. This is in addition to an earlier announced $1 billion investment for its first data center in Missouri.

Where are Google’s data center campuses located in Kansas City?

The first data center is located in the Hunt Midwest Business Center. The second data center campus, Project Mica, is in Kansas City’s Northland, near the intersection of Interstate 435 and U.S. Highway 169 in Clay County.

What is the size of the Project Mica campus?

Project Mica spans nearly 500 acres and is expected to include five hyperscale data center buildings, totaling approximately 1.56 million square feet of computing space.

What kind of jobs are expected to be created by these data centers?

The first data center is expected to support up to 1,300 jobs, with a total “halo of jobs” exceeding 1,400, including construction and logistics. Google is also expanding its Skilled Trades and Readiness (STAR) program to the region and has committed to local school districts for workforce development.

How will the data centers be powered?

The first data center is to run on 400 megawatts of new, carbon-free power. The Project Mica campus will draw nearly 700 megawatts, with a long-term agreement with Evergy covering full energy costs for both Kansas City campuses.

Key Features of Google’s Kansas City Data Center Campuses

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Author: STAFF HERE KANSAS CITY WRITER

The KANSAS CITY STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREKansasCity.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Kansas City, Jackson County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as American Royal World Series of Barbecue, Dia De Los Muertos, and Planet Anime Kansas City. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Greater Kansas City Chamber of Commerce and United Way of Greater Kansas City, plus leading businesses in healthcare, finance, and entertainment that power the local economy such as Children's Mercy Hospital, Government Employees Health Association, and AMC Entertainment. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREStLouis.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Missouri's dynamic landscape.