The construction of data centers is a controversial topic, with people taking strong positions both for and against it. While there may be opposition, there are also numerous benefits, and it is essential to build more data centers to keep up with the pace of the demand for technology.
Why do we need more data centers? The ubiquitous nature of technology is no secret. Internet, streaming services, online shopping, social media, connected devices, virtual work and meetings, smart homes, and artificial intelligence all contribute to the growing demand for data centers. For instance, when I use my Peloton in the morning, I connect to a live streaming class while simultaneously watching the news on my TV and recording my workout details on my smartphone. All of the data that is exchanged and used needs to be stored and processed somewhere. This is where data centers come in, often referred to as "The Cloud.” Some people do not realize that “The Cloud” is not in the sky; rather, it is made up of large buildings hosting servers and equipment (aka data centers). Notably, these data centers are strategically located in areas with high connectivity and low latency to ensure fast and reliable service for consumers. Indeed, if you use technology, you rely on data centers.
Community pushback against data centers is focused on several themes. Opponents often argue that data centers are unattractive, noisy, do not create enough jobs, consume excessive energy and water, harm the environment, that we already have enough data centers, or that they should be built "somewhere else" (NIMBY - Not In My Back Yard). While some of these concerns may seem compelling, most are based on misconceptions.
Indeed, data center developers typically collaborate with local community leaders during the planning of new developments. The local government, acting on behalf of the community, is involved in the planning, development, location, and purpose of the construction. Through this process, the communities have a say in how and where data centers are built.
The actual benefits of data centers are both obvious and subtle. No doubt, The Cloud is being built because of demand. There is a need to house data servers, which will only continue if society continues to consume information at the current level. And, as most can predict, that level will continue to increase. Without data centers, there would be no, or alternatively very slow, technology services. Most people would agree that we need to house the data in secure, well-built locations, and that it needs to be reliable, stable, consistent, and constant.
Equally important but less obvious is the fact that local communities benefit in many ways. Data centers produce significant tax revenue and create jobs. Tax revenue from data centers is substantial, while the facilities themselves place minimal pressure on essential services like fire, police, education, and infrastructure. Although job creation may seem limited—since a large data center might only have a few vehicles parked outside compared to a similar-sized office building—the ripple effect of job opportunities is significant. Construction jobs, hospitality roles, utility positions, and support businesses all thrive around data centers. On any given day, over 500 workers may be on a data center construction site, in turn, contributing to the economy of the local community. Finally, data centers are not “ugly.” For example, we worked on this masterpiece, which has a very appealing design in my opinion:
The Mission Critical group at Rock Spring Contracting specializes in the construction and build-out of data centers in the Mid-Atlantic and Southeast regions. We are proud of the contributions we have made to continuing to expand “The Cloud.” With 10 years of mission-critical experience, we understand that this sector requires a specialized level of service and execution. We have developed dedicated teams to handle these mission-critical projects. Our office in Northern Virginia houses most of our pre-construction and project management team and provides support to our other branches when mission-critical work is conducted outside the DC region. Our field supervisors, safety teams, and craft workers all specialize in data center construction, recognizing the delicate nature of the work and the necessity of adhering to fast-paced schedules while maintaining safety.
Industry experts anticipate that this data center boom will continue for at least the next 10 to 15 years. Most hyperscale companies are several years behind on their capacity to meet the exponential demand for data processing and connected services. Rock Spring remains focused and dedicated to enhancing our efficiency, quality, and safety as we support this ongoing expansion. The sky is the limit for The Cloud!
Mike DeSarno is Vice President, National Director of Mission Critical at Rock Spring Contracting, LLC. Mike heads Rock Spring’s Northern Virginia office. Mike earned a Bachelor’s of Science from Virginia Tech University and a MBA from Mount Saint Mary’s University.
Rock Spring Contracting, LLC, founded in 2010 by Nick DeSarno and Sean Keegan, is a premiere commercial subcontractor headquartered in the Greater Washington DC area, with additional offices in Richmond, Charleston, and Atlanta. Offering a wide array of service lines including but not limited to high-end interiors and ceilings, data center construction, demolition, and hauling, Rock Spring prides itself on quality craftmanship and relationships with long-term clients. Their award-winning work is a direct result of the high performing team in place, positive and safe working environments, and a culture that values each individual across the company.
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