As always, there are naysayers on practically every issue including whether the sun will rise tomorrow. Such is the case with the three Amazon data centers planned for this area—Blanchard, Benton, and Shreveport.
God created the universe in seven days.
In the first three days of this week, Amazon has made a big start on its three local data center projects. Who knows what will be accomplished between today (Thurs.) and Sunday.
Here is what is publicly known:
1. Monday the big Amazon data center announcement including a $250,000 Amazon Northwest Louisiana Community Fund to support education and community projects in Caddo and Bossier Projects.
2. Tuesday Amazon posted the first job positions for the planned data centers.
3. Yesterday (Wednesday) the data center developer hosted two very well attended meetings to inform local contractors and service providers about the procurement process.
Obviously, there are many actions being taken in the private arena to expedite the construction of the three data centers
Efforts are continuing this week to obtain all the needed permits to commence construction on the Shreveport data center, which is delayed by litigation.
Communications have been had with the local entities that will provide water for the center concerning any needed infrastructure.
Much like the advent of the casinos in Shreveport and Bossier, the progress of the data center construction along with the immediate and long term impact of these three projects totaling $18 BILLION will be a new chapter in the economic and social history of northwest Louisiana.
John came to Shreveport in January of 1977 when he was transferred to Barksdale AFB.
He’s been active in Shreveport politics since deciding to make Shreveport his home.
John practiced law for 40 years and he now monitors local politics. He regularly attends Shreveport City Council and Caddo Parish Commission meetings.
John is published weekly in The Inquisitor, bi-monthly in The Forum News, and frequently in the Shreveport Times.
He enjoys addressing civic groups on local government issues and elections.