Meta to expand Montgomery data hub, pushing total investment to $1.5 billion

(Made in Alabama)

Meta plans an expansion of its Montgomery Data Center, bringing the technology company’s total investment in Alabama’s capital region to more than $1.5 billion.

The news was shared during a closed construction tour with state and regional leaders, reinforcing Montgomery’s position as one of the Southeast’s fastest-growing technology and innovation hubs, according to the Montgomery Chamber of Commerce.

Ellen McNair, Secretary of the Alabama Department of Commerce, said Meta’s decision reflects the state’s growing competitiveness in the technology sector.

“Meta’s continued investment in Montgomery is a powerful validation of Alabama’s reputation as a destination for world-class technology and innovation,” Secretary McNair said. “This expansion reinforces our state’s ability to compete for global projects, create high-quality jobs and build the infrastructure needed to support a modern economy.”

Meta first announced an $800 million investment to open the next-generation data center in Montgomery in April 2024.

Once completed, the Montgomery Data Center campus will total more than 1.3 million square feet and support over 100 operational jobs. Optimized for AI workloads, the data center will be a part of the global infrastructure that brings Meta technologies and programs such as Facebook and Instagram to life.

“Montgomery has proven to be a perfect home for a Meta data center,” said Henry Thornton, community development regional manager at Meta. “The support of this incredible community, together with the partnership we’ve experienced with state and local leaders, have made it possible for us to expand our facility and continue investing in Montgomery’s long-term vitality.”

Alabama technology sector
Meta plans to expand its Montgomery Data Center, bringing the total investment in the Alabama facility to $1.5 billion. (Image: Meta)

The Montgomery Data Center also continues to generate long-term economic benefits through construction activity, supply chain opportunities and workforce development tied to advanced industry growth. It will support over 1,500 skilled trade workers on site at peak construction, according to the Chamber.

The Chamber also said Montgomery’s growing footprint in support of defense and innovation makes Meta’s expansion especially significant. By adding world-class digital infrastructure, Meta’s investment strengthens this ecosystem and reinforces Montgomery’s role as a strategic hub to advance AI, cybersecurity and business innovation.

Local impact

Montgomery-area officials applaud the investment from Meta and predict it will have a massive long-term economic impact on the region.

“This investment reflects our vision of building a modern economy rooted in innovation, talent, and quality of life, Montgomery Mayor Steven L. Reed said. “It also means real opportunities for our residents – good jobs, stronger schools, and a future where technology drives shared prosperity.

“Meta’s continued growth here affirms what we know to be true: Montgomery is a place where global companies can thrive, and where innovation and community go hand in hand,” Reed added.

Doug Singleton, Chairman of the Montgomery County Commission said Meta’s $1.5 billion commitment to Montgomery is a testament to the strength of the community and its growth potential. “This expansion brings not only jobs and investment but also momentum for every sector of our economy,” he said.

Anna Buckalew, President and CEO of the Montgomery Chamber, said Meta’s decision to expand its data center represents “a powerful statement about Montgomery’s competitiveness and our ability to attract and sustain global investment at the highest level.”

“This expansion not only strengthens the Montgomery region’s role as a hub for advanced manufacturing, logistics, technology and national security, it demonstrates the impact of bold public–private partnerships in driving long-term growth,” she added.

Alabama technology
Meta plans to expand its Montgomery Data Center, bringing the total investment in the Alabama facility to $1.5 billion. (Image: Meta)

Courtesy of the Alabama Department of Commerce’s Made in Alabama website.