The city of Cedar Rapids, Iowa, has announced that QTS (Quality Technology Services) is behind a major new data center campus project in partnership with Alliant Energy. The project, with a minimum investment of $750 million, will be the largest economic development project in the city’s history. It is expected to create hundreds of construction jobs and at least 30 full-time high-tech positions in the first two phases.
Cedar Rapids Mayor Tiffany O’Donnell said this investment would strengthen the city’s position in the technology sector. She noted that the project would bring not only economic benefits but also social and environmental contributions to the community.
QTS, a global leader in data center services, is known for its wide network of data centers, high security standards, and commitment to sustainable technology solutions. The company offers cloud, hybrid, and enterprise IT solutions to businesses of all sizes.
Cedar Rapids was chosen for the project due to several key advantages. The region has a low risk of natural disasters, making it an ideal location for uninterrupted data services. Additionally, Alliant Energy’s renewable energy programs support environmentally friendly operations. Iowa’s business-friendly policies, including low energy costs and tax incentives, also played a role in QTS’s decision.
The new data center will feature advanced, eco-friendly technology. It will use a waterless cooling system, which significantly reduces environmental impact compared to traditional data centers. The center will be built in phases, with buildings ranging from 300,000 to 1.4 million square feet. Future expansions are possible, depending on demand.
The project will create hundreds of construction and trade jobs during the building phase. Once operational, the first two phases will provide at least 30 full-time high-tech jobs, with 15 positions per phase. QTS has also committed to supporting the local economy by partnering with local suppliers and contractors.
Sustainability is a key focus of the project. The facility will use renewable energy to reduce its carbon footprint. The waterless cooling system will further minimize environmental impact. Additionally, QTS plans to launch community initiatives, including educational programs and internships, to support the local workforce.
Iowa Governor Kim Reynolds praised the project, highlighting that it reflects the strong partnership between the state, Cedar Rapids, QTS, and Alliant Energy. She emphasized that Iowa’s business-friendly environment and skilled workforce were key factors in attracting the investment.
The Cedar Rapids data center will strengthen digital infrastructure in the region and support growth in cloud services, enterprise IT, and technological innovation. Construction is expected to begin soon, and additional phases may be added based on future demand.
The investment marks a major step in making Cedar Rapids a hub for technology and innovation. As QTS expands its operations, the project is expected to boost the local economy, create job opportunities, and position the city as a key player in the U.S. technology landscape.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Why did QTS choose Cedar Rapids?
Cedar Rapids offers a low risk of natural disasters, access to renewable energy from Alliant Energy, and a business-friendly environment with low energy costs and tax incentives.
What is the expected economic impact of the project?
The investment is projected to bring at least $750 million in economic benefits and create hundreds of construction jobs, along with 30 full-time high-tech positions during the first two phases.
How does the waterless cooling system work?
The system uses advanced air-cooling technology instead of traditional water-based methods, significantly reducing water consumption and environmental impact.
How will local businesses benefit from the project?
QTS has committed to working with local suppliers and contractors, creating opportunities for local businesses during construction and ongoing operations.
What is the environmental impact of the project?
The facility will use renewable energy and a waterless cooling system to minimize its carbon footprint, aligning with QTS’s commitment to sustainability.
How will QTS ensure data security?
The data center will have multi-layered security systems, including 24/7 monitoring, to ensure data protection and operational continuity.
The QTS data center investment is more than just a construction project—it’s a step toward making Cedar Rapids a leader in technology and innovation. The project will deliver significant economic benefits, create new job opportunities, and establish the city as a key player in the U.S. technology landscape. With a strong focus on sustainability, community engagement, and technological advancement, QTS is building not only a data center but also a brighter future for Cedar Rapids.
