Microsoft Breaks Ground: New Data Center Campus Underway in Manassas, Virginia

Photo byUS Army Corps Of Engineers

In a significant development for the tech giant, Microsoft has embarked on the construction of a state-of-the-art data center campus in Prince William County, Virginia. The project, situated on Jacksonville Road in Manassas, signifies Microsoft's commitment to expanding its digital infrastructure.

Microsoft, through its general contractor Lemartec, initiated site preparation work in January 2024. The company shared this exciting update on a community blog, outlining their anticipation for the completion of this phase by mid-2024. While specific details about the new site's specifications remain undisclosed, it is speculated that this could be the Balls Ford Road site for which Microsoft previously filed.

In 2022, Microsoft submitted plans to the US Army Corps of Engineers for a two-building campus on Balls Ford Road, east of Jacksonville Avenue in Manassas. This proposed site spans 40 acres and is expected to feature two three-story buildings, identified as MNZ01 and MNZ02. The company's investment in this expansion is evident in its acquisition of 46 acres at 11314 Balls Ford Road in 2020, totaling an expenditure of $29 million.

The development of this data center campus underscores Microsoft's strategic approach to meet the growing demands for cloud services and digital infrastructure. As technology continues to evolve, this investment solidifies Microsoft's position at the forefront of innovation and highlights the region's importance as a hub for cutting-edge data center facilities.

However, amidst the enthusiasm for technological advancement, there are voices of concern from Prince William County residents. Some locals have expressed reservations about the proliferation of data centers in the area. Critics argue that the construction of such facilities may have environmental impacts, including increased energy consumption and potential strain on local resources.

Source: Microsoft's community blog update.