Amazon Announces $20 Billion Investment in Pennsylvania Data Centers
Amazon has unveiled plans for a groundbreaking $20 billion investment in Pennsylvania to expand its data center campuses, marking the largest economic development project in the state’s history. The project is expected to bolster the state’s AI infrastructure, create 1,250 new high-skilled jobs, and support thousands more in construction and the broader technology supply chain.
The initial sites for Amazon Web Services (AWS) innovation campuses will be located in Salem Township, Luzerne County, and Falls Township, Bucks County, with additional locations under consideration. This strategic investment demonstrates Amazon’s commitment to advancing AI capabilities and fostering economic growth in Pennsylvania.
Senator Dave McCormick stated, “This investment will create thousands of jobs and bring critical workforce training programs to Pennsylvania.” He highlighted the state’s advantages, including vast energy resources, a skilled workforce, plentiful water, proximity to major population centers, and elite research institutions, making it an ideal location for data centers.
The investment includes introducing specialized training and education programs tailored to the evolving tech industry needs. These initiatives include data center technician programs, fiber optic fusion splicing workshops, and STEM-focused education for K-12 schools. Additionally, Amazon will establish an AWS Information Infrastructure Pre-Apprenticeship program, offering a pathway to technical career opportunities.
Governor Josh Shapiro emphasized, “Pennsylvania is competing again. With Amazon’s commitment of at least $20 billion to build new state-of-the-art data center campuses across our Commonwealth, we have secured the largest private sector investment in Pennsylvania’s history.” He noted that this investment will create thousands of good-paying, stable jobs and generate new revenue for local communities.
Beyond workforce development, Amazon plans to launch the Amazon Northeastern Pennsylvania Community Fund with a $250,000 commitment. The fund will support initiatives in STEM education, sustainability, digital skills, and community health, providing grants of up to $10,000 for local community projects in Luzerne and Columbia Counties.
David Zapolsky, Amazon’s chief global affairs and legal officer, said, “Amazon’s multi-billion-dollar investment in Pennsylvania reinforces our dedication to advancing AI innovation while creating lasting economic opportunities in the state.” He emphasized that expanding cloud computing infrastructure will invest in Pennsylvania’s future through new jobs, workforce development programs, and community initiatives.
Since 2010, Amazon has invested over $26 billion in Pennsylvania, supporting more than 27,000 direct roles and 37,100 indirect jobs. The company remains committed to sustainability, operating numerous renewable energy projects in the state. This significant investment positions Pennsylvania at the forefront of AI innovation, cloud computing, and economic development while creating opportunities for communities and workers alike.
