A massive data center project could soon transform Hall County.
QTS and Lancium announced plans to build a new data center campus near Turkey, a project expected to bring more than $10 billion in capital investment, thousands of jobs and a significant boost to the local tax base.
The campus will be built on Lancium's Clean Campus near Turkey, with QTS designing, constructing and operating the data center buildings.
If completed as planned, the project will create up to 7,000 construction jobs at peak construction and about 350 permanent jobs, including positions with QTS, maintenance crews, security and tenants operating at the site.
Officials say the development is also expected to generate new tax revenue for Hall County, support local schools and workforce training programs, and provide direct support for water infrastructure, schools and first responders.
For Hall County Judge Ray Powell, the project represents an opportunity to build on the county's future.
"Hall County has always been built on hardworking people and strong communities," Powell said. "This project gives us an opportunity to grow our local economy, support small businesses and invest in the future of our county. We appreciate Lancium work working alongside county leadership and engaging with our community, and we're excited about what's ahead as we continue working with Lancium and welcome QTS as this project move forward."
One concern that often comes with large data centers is infrastructure, particularly electricity and water.
According to the companies, they will pay for 100% of the energy infrastructure improvements needed for the campus. Lancium will build the site's electrical and civil infrastructure, using battery storage and solar resources to help power the development.
Officials say those upgrades are intended not only to support the project but also to strengthen the electric grid and improve reliability for existing customers.
"Lancium develops energy and civil infrastructure at its campuses for sustainable power that supports grid stability and reliability," said Michael McNamara, founder and CEO of Lancium. "In partnership with QTS, Hall County and the City of Turkey, we are bringing this investment to Hall County in a way that benefits the grid and provides long-term economic and societal benefit to the community. We're proud to partner with QTS on this project."
Water is another issue local residents are likely to be watching closely.
The companies say the campus will use a closed-loop cooling system that requires water only during startup. Once operational, the system recycles its water instead of constantly drawing new supplies, dramatically reducing water use compared to traditional data centers.
Officials also stressed that water will come from onsite wells or be hauled in from outside sources—not from the City of Turkey's water system.
QTS leaders say they want to be more than just another company building in the area.
"We are excited about the potential to expand into the special communities of Turkey and Hall County," said Tag Greason and David Robey, Co-CEOs of QTS. "Our goal is to be a responsible neighbor, one that listens, invests in local priorities and supports sustainable growth for families and businesses across the community. We're committed to being a lasting part of Hall County for decades to come."
Company officials say they also plan to hold public meetings and continue working with local leaders as the project moves forward, giving residents opportunities to ask questions and provide feedback along the way.
