Meta has officially broken ground on a new state-of-the-art data center campus in Lebanon, Indiana, marking one of its largest infrastructure investments to date. The facility, designed to deliver 1 gigawatt of power, represents a commitment of over $10 billion in data center infrastructure and community development. This project is part of Meta’s broader strategy to meet the growing demands of artificial intelligence, which requires massive computing capacity and reliable, scalable data center operations. The new site is Meta’s second in Indiana and will be among the most advanced data centers in the world. It will feature high-bandwidth, low-latency technology and improved reliability, enabling Meta to support both its core business and its ambitious AI initiatives. As AI models grow in complexity, facilities of this scale are essential to sustain innovation and performance. During peak construction, the project is expected to generate more than 4,000 jobs, with around 300 permanent operational roles once the facility is live. To support workforce development, Meta is launching a new program in partnership with the Boone County Career Collaborative. This initiative will connect students from three local school districts with career exploration opportunities and work-based learning experiences, helping prepare the next generation for high-demand tech careers. Meta is also deeply committed to giving back to the local community. The company will contribute $1 million annually for 20 years to the Boone REMC Community Fund, providing direct assistance with energy bills. It will also fund emergency water utility support through The Caring Center. In addition, Meta will cover all costs for water and wastewater services tied to the data center’s operation. Over the course of the project, Meta will invest more than $120 million in public infrastructure improvements, including upgrades to roads, transmission lines, and water systems. The company will also bring its Community Action Grants program to Boone County, providing funding to schools, nonprofits, and local organizations. Sustainability is a core pillar of the project. Meta will match 100% of the data center’s energy use with renewable energy and aims to achieve LEED Gold certification upon completion. The facility will use a closed-loop, liquid-cooling system that recirculates water, requiring no fresh water intake for the majority of the year. Meta is committed to being a responsible water steward, pledging to restore 100% of the water it consumes back to local watersheds. To further support environmental health, Meta is partnering with Arable to deploy irrigation technology for farmers in Indiana’s Upper Wabash River Basin. This effort is expected to restore 200 million gallons of water annually over the next decade while reducing costs for local farmers. Additionally, Meta is revitalizing a section of Deer Creek, enhancing the wetland corridor by expanding native vegetation and creating a better habitat for pollinators. Meta looks forward to completing the project and continuing to strengthen its role as a responsible and impactful neighbor in Lebanon, Indiana.