Pennsylvania is set to receive a significant boost in its technological infrastructure with Amazon’s announcement of a $20 billion investment to establish multiple AI innovation campuses across the state. The first two locations have been identified as Salem Township in Luzerne County and Falls Township in Bucks County. This investment is expected to create at least 1,250 high-paying, high-tech jobs in addition to thousands of construction jobs during the development phase.
Governor Josh Shapiro hailed the announcement as a historic moment for Pennsylvania, stating, “Pennsylvania is competing again — and I’m proud to announce that 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 the history of Pennsylvania.” The Governor emphasized the Shapiro Administration’s efforts in spurring economic development, including creating the first Economic Development Strategy in nearly two decades and securing historic funding for various development projects.
Amazon Web Services (AWS), described as the world’s most comprehensive and widely adopted cloud, is set to further strengthen its investments in generative AI and high-tech cloud infrastructure. This move is seen as a significant step in supporting U.S. leadership in AI and helping customers across industries harness AI-driven solutions. AWS is relied upon by millions of customers, including startups, large enterprises, and government agencies, to advance their AI journey and drive innovation.
David Zapolsky, Amazon’s chief global affairs and legal officer, expressed the company’s dedication to advancing AI innovation while creating lasting economic opportunities in Pennsylvania. He highlighted the expansion of cloud computing infrastructure, new jobs, workforce development programs, and community initiatives as key benefits of the investment.
DCED Secretary Rick Siger noted that Pennsylvania worked closely with local partners to secure the $20 billion investment, emphasizing the positive tax impacts and job creation the data center campuses will bring. He praised Governor Shapiro’s leadership, stating, “Thanks to Governor Shapiro’s leadership and his get-stuff-done attitude, Pennsylvania is winning them. Our Commonwealth is built on innovation and this project sends a clear, strong signal to the world that Pennsylvania Gets It Done.”
This latest investment adds to Amazon’s existing footprint in Pennsylvania, which includes 23 fulfillment and sortation centers and 20 last-mile delivery stations. Since 2010, Amazon has invested more than $26 billion in the state, underscoring its commitment to the region’s economic growth and technological advancement.