AUBix company leadership held a grand opening on Monday for its $120 million data center which will bring enhanced access to high-speed internet to public and business entities across Alabama.
According to the governor’s office, the AUBix data center will bring technological parity to underserved communities throughout the state. The data center is expected to become a driving force of economic activity and crucial to the future success of the state’s innovation economy.
In a statement, Gov. Kay Ivey celebrated the opening and touted its expected contributions to the technological advancement of rural Alabama.
“I’m thrilled to see the AUBix data center project come to fruition and begin serving the high-tech needs of Alabama businesses,” said Ivey. “This project is a success for not only Auburn but the entire state of Alabama, equipping our rural communities to compete in global marketplaces.”
U.S. Rep. Mike Rogers (R-Saks) advised that the data center would prove to be an asset for East Alabama.
“AUBix will give East Alabama a critical edge in cyber. From improving cybersecurity to giving students access to computer science training — there are many ways this data center will benefit our communities,” stated Rogers. “I congratulate East Alabama on securing this asset to serve our communities.”
Alongside supporting the internet needs of businesses, AUBix will support academic research and development. AUBix is an internet exchange for existing network service providers in the area, allowing them to leverage high-speed regional and global networks to improve the performance of internet applications.
Auburn University president Jay Gogue spoke to what the data center could mean to the institution in the future.
“As Auburn advances its work with high-tech companies nationwide and as we strengthen our efforts in the field of cybersecurity, AUBix could be a potential asset for us going forward,” said Gogue.
Andrew Albrecht, co-founder and CEO of AUBix, touched on the company’s goal of addressing outstanding needs regarding high-speed internet access.
“AUBix is addressing the increasing requirements for high-speed computing and cybersecurity compliance by providing state-of-the-art infrastructure and services,” said Albrecht. “In addition, we are committed to increasing the technology-enabled workforce in the region by partnering with academic institutions.”
The 40,000-square-foot facility on West Samford Avenue includes customer office space, conference rooms and tenant equipment storage. The facility exceeds industry standards, rules and regulations for cybersecurity, health care and financial services.
“We’re grateful to have such an impactful project, including the taxes it generates for our school system, like AUBix right here in our community,” said Anders. “We appreciate Governor Ivey’s leadership in supporting this project. And I’d like to thank the AUBix team for their hard work establishing mission-critical digital infrastructure and providing increased connectivity in Auburn.”
Greg Canfield, secretary of the Alabama Department of Commerce, said businesses across the Yellowhammer State would benefit from the data center’s operations.
“The state-of-the-art AUBix data center will optimize growth opportunities for businesses in many parts of Alabama by addressing their critical competitive need for reliable broadband service,” proclaimed Canfield. “By enhancing the information technology infrastructure in our state, this facility is providing a spark for the future.”
Dylan Smith is a staff writer for Yellowhammer News. You can follow him on Twitter @DylanSmithAL
