Microsoft has been identified as the company behind another big economic development project in West Des Moines. The company will build a $1.1 billion data center on a 154 acre site in Polk County. Governor Terry Branstad was in West Des Moines for the announcement, made shortly after the Iowa Economic Development Authority approved just over $20 million dollars in sales tax rebates for the project.
Microsoft already has a data center in West Des Moines, so the company’s total investment in the area will now reach nearly $2 billion.
The City of West Des Moines has promised $53 million in infrastructure improvements to accommodate the site. Mayor Steve Gaer said it’s well worth the investment.
Microsoft officials have pledged the project will eventually create 84 jobs, most of which will pay a wage of at least $24.32 an hour. Construction on the project is expected to start this spring.
