Meta Bets $1 Billion on Tulsa for Its AI Engine

Meta is building a new data center in Tulsa, Oklahoma, engineered specifically for artificial intelligence operations. This facility, the company's first in the state and 32nd globally, represents a cornerstone investment in the infrastructure required to power its next-generation AI services.

The project is more than a server farm; it's a significant economic commitment. Meta expects to invest over $1 billion, employing more than 1,000 workers at the peak of construction and creating about 100 permanent operational roles. The company is also directing more than $25 million toward local road and water system upgrades.

Community partnerships form a key part of the plan. A grant will help expand Eastside Rise's neighborhood programs in East Tulsa. For workforce development, Meta is collaborating with Tulsa Tech and Tulsa Community College on a training program designed to graduate over 200 people each year in technical fields relevant to digital infrastructure and AI.

Addressing resource concerns directly, Meta says the Tulsa center will use a closed-loop cooling system designed to operate without fresh water for most of the year. The company pledges to cover all water and wastewater costs to prevent pass-through to residents and is establishing a fund to assist Tulsans with water bill and service line issues. A separate, decade-long agricultural project with Phytech aims to save over 50 million gallons of water annually on local farms.

On energy, Meta states it will match the data center's power use with 100% renewable sources and cover all associated grid infrastructure costs. The company is also contributing to a utility bill assistance program for Oklahoma residents. The Tulsa facility is scheduled to support over 1,500 megawatts of new clean energy generation in the state.

Source: Facebook