Proposed $1B Data Center Could Bring 125 Jobs to McDuffie County

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A state-required review of a proposed 200-acre data center project in McDuffie County, Georgia, estimates the $1 billion development could generate around $25 million a year in local revenue and support approximately 125 full-time permanent jobs after construction.

Why it matters

The report highlights the potential economic benefits of the large-scale 'Project Azalea' development, but also raises concerns about whether the project aligns with the county's long-term plans to preserve the rural character of the area.

The details

The Development of Regional Impact (DRI) report, completed by the CSRA Regional Commission, is required by the state of Georgia before a major project can move forward. The report identifies 18 parties outside McDuffie County that could be affected by the project, including nearby communities and environmental groups. However, the report does not detail the specific impacts. The proposed site falls within the 'Countryside' character area of the McDuffie County Comprehensive Plan, which calls for preserving open space and maintaining a rural character. The report also flags infrastructure issues, noting there is not enough energy supply currently available to serve the project and that a traffic study has not been completed.

• The DRI report was completed on February 13, 2026.

What’s next

The DRI report is advisory and not binding, so McDuffie County will still have the authority to decide whether the data center development is appropriate for the area.