listen to this articleRosemount will be the official landing site for Facebook parent company Meta’s new $800 million data center. The project promises to put more than 1,000 helmets into operation and create around 100 operational jobs.
Golden Valley-based Mortenson was approached to build the 715,000-square-foot project on 280 acres at Humor Park in Rosemount. The site was once a World War II gunpowder production site and was later owned by the University of Minnesota.
“We are pleased to continue our partnership with Meta and begin construction of Meta’s new data center in Rosemount,” said Steve Knighton, Mortenson’s vice president and general manager of data center operations. . “Not only will this project enhance Meta’s world-class infrastructure, it will provide substantial construction jobs, support the local economy and contribute to economic growth across the region.”
Gov. Tim Walz and other state leaders confirmed the megaproject Thursday. The announcement comes after months of media reports and speculation about a mysterious company’s plans to build a large data center at Humor Park.
But Mehta’s involvement in the project has been kept largely secret since last fall. Mehta’s plans were revealed in September, when the University of Minnesota’s Board of Trustees approved the sale of the Humor Park property to the company for $36.7 million.
The campus will be powered by 100% renewable energy. According to the Minnesota Department of Employment and Economic Development, the data center is expected to receive LEED Gold certification when it begins operations in 2026.
“Meta’s decision to invest in Rosemount illustrates the story we share with companies around the world. We have world-class infrastructure, a tech-savvy workforce, and a We have an innovative and creative spirit that makes it a great place to do business,” said DEED Commissioner Matt. Barilek said in a statement. “We are excited to welcome Meta to Minnesota and continue to encourage companies from around the world to join us here.”
Peter Frosch, president and CEO of Greater MSP, said the facility will expand into “medical technology, regenerative agriculture, sustainable aviation fuel, and more.” We are on the path to regaining national leadership.”
