Google expands Oklahoma data centers with $9 billion investment: Q&A with Google and Gov. Stitt

Google is expanding its footprint in Oklahoma with plans for major growth at its Pryor data center and the new facility in Stillwater. The two-year, $9 billion investment aims to strengthen the state’s role in artificial intelligence, cybersecurity, and technology-driven industries.

In this Q&A, Kate Franko, Google’s Head of Data Center Public Affairs, and Governor Kevin Stitt share why Oklahoma was chosen, what the investment means for the state’s economy, and what residents can expect from the new data centers.

Kate Franko // Head of Data Center Public Affairs, Google

Q: Why Oklahoma?

A: Whenever we go into a new area, we look for available land, available resources, and available workforce. And Oklahoma has the magic combination of all three. We've been here for a long time already, and we've had a wonderful experience in the state of Oklahoma, in Mayes County, and specifically in Pryor. So we're really excited to continue investing right here in Pryor and now expand for the first time across the state of Oklahoma.

Q: What does this expansion mean?

A: We are building two new buildings on this campus. So there's not an expansion of the border, it’s an expansion of our capacity here on this campus. And we're also expanding to that new campus in Stillwater, and our investment today also includes our support for workforce development and specifically electrical skill training across Oklahoma.

Q: Will the new facility in Stillwater be comparable in size to Pryor?

A: At this stage, it'll be a little bit smaller. But we are excited to go there and see what we can do in the future.

We support over 800 jobs right now here in Pryor. And it'll be a smaller campus in Stillwater at this stage. But we expect comparable growth.

Q: When is each campus expected to be completed?

A: We're looking at late 2027 and 2028.

Related: Google data center in Oklahoma: What the company's $9 billion investment means for the state

Kevin Stitt // Governor of Oklahoma

Q: How long has Oklahoma been working with Google on this project?

A: We've been working on the land purchase there in Stillwater for what feels like 6 or 7 years. CLO was able to get that land for them. It's been quiet for a long time, and we're glad to get it out in the public now.

Q: What does this investment mean for Oklahoma?

A: It's just a testament to Oklahoma's business-friendly environment. If we get our economy going, remember, that helps. Education, infrastructure, health care, everything. So we're really excited about Google's $9 billion investment over the next two years.

Q: Will Google follow standard permitting and environmental procedures?

A: They're going to go through the normal permitting process, the air permits, our Department of Environmental Quality, also, the EPA will be involved. And so they won't cut any corners, it’ll be like any other company. And, we'll make sure they do it the correct way. 

Q: What types of jobs and economic impact will this bring?

A: The construction jobs, the infrastructure jobs, the restaurants, the bicycle shops, the insurance company, the car dealerships, it's just going to be amazing for our state. And then you think about the permanent jobs that are going to last, you know, forever. 

Q: Where will Google get the power for the new facilities?

A: "How specifically, I don't know if that's disclosed yet on where they're getting their power. But they're coming here because Oklahoma has access to power. That's really exciting."