Sid Juwarker Leaves Greater Des Moines Partnership for National Digital Infrastructure Role at Terracon

The Digital Infrastructure Boom: What It Means for Regional Economies

Across the United States, data centers and fiber‑optic networks are redefining the economic landscape. As companies chase faster latency and larger bandwidth, cities that can offer reliable power, skilled labor, and strategic location are becoming the new “Silicon Valleys” of the 21st century. This shift isn’t just about tech—it’s a catalyst for job creation, tax revenue, and community revitalization.

Data Centers as Engines of Local Growth

According to the International Energy Agency, the global data‑center market will exceed $200 billion by 2028, with the United States accounting for roughly 40 % of that spend. Cities that attract even a single mid‑size facility can see a 1‑2 % boost in local GDP within three years, driven by construction jobs, ongoing operations staff, and ancillary services such as hospitality and logistics.

Site Selection: The Intersection of Engineering and Economics

Choosing the right location is a high‑stakes puzzle. Engineers evaluate soil stability, flood risk, and power grid resilience, while economists weigh tax incentives, workforce availability, and long‑term growth potential. Companies like Terracon are now offering “digital‑infrastructure consulting” that blends environmental engineering with economic development insights—exactly the expertise that former Greater Des Moines Partnership leader Sid Juwarker brings to the table.

Emerging Trends Shaping Tomorrow’s Digital Hubs

• Edge Computing Expansion: Companies are decentralizing processing power, bringing servers closer to end users. This drives demand for smaller “edge” data centers in suburban and even rural areas.
• Green Certification Standards: LEED‑DC and ENERGY STAR are becoming prerequisites for new builds, pushing developers to embed sustainability from day one.
• Public‑Private Partnerships (P3s): Municipalities are teaming up with private firms to share risk and reward, often leveraging tax‑increment financing to fund infrastructure upgrades.
• Workforce Upskilling Programs: Community colleges—like Drake University’s environmental science courses—are tailoring curricula to produce the next generation of data‑center technicians and sustainability analysts.

Real‑World Example: Des Moines’ Digital Leap

Since 2021, Des Moines has attracted three major data‑center projects, collectively investing over $250 million. The projects have created more than 500 construction jobs and 150 permanent technical positions. The city’s collaboration with the Greater Des Moines Partnership helped streamline permitting, while consulting firms provided the environmental due diligence that kept the projects on schedule.

Pro Tips for Communities Wanting to Attract Digital Infrastructure

1. Map Critical Utilities: Ensure reliable, high‑capacity power and fiber routes are documented and publicly accessible.
2. Offer Targeted Incentives: Tax abatements tied to job creation milestones can attract developers without draining municipal budgets.
3. Partner with Experts: Engage firms that understand both engineering constraints and economic incentives to guide site selection.
4. Promote Sustainability: Highlight renewable‑energy options and green‑building certifications to appeal to eco‑conscious operators.

FAQ

What is the economic impact of a data center on a small city?

Beyond construction jobs, a data center can generate ongoing employment for technicians, security, and facilities staff, and increase local tax revenues by 0.5‑1 % of the city’s budget.

How do environmental engineers contribute to data‑center projects?

They assess site suitability, manage stormwater and emissions, and ensure compliance with local and federal environmental regulations.

Can a city join the digital‑infrastructure boom without large incentives?

Yes. Strategic location, reliable utilities, and a skilled workforce can be as compelling as tax breaks, especially for edge‑computing operators seeking proximity to users.

What role do public‑private partnerships play?

P3s allow municipalities to share the financial risk of infrastructure upgrades while leveraging private sector expertise to attract and manage projects.

Take the Next Step

Are you a city planner, economic‑development professional, or industry leader looking to dive deeper into digital‑infrastructure trends? Subscribe to our newsletter for weekly insights, or reach out to discuss how your community can become the next digital hub.