Under the Hard Hat

Tag: Projects

  • New jails being built in Indiana: A progress update

    New jails being built in Indiana: A progress update

    Indiana is making significant investments in its correctional system, with several new jail and prison projects underway to address overcrowding, improve inmate rehabilitation, and modernize outdated facilities. From the $1.2 billion replacement of Westville Correctional Facility to county jails expanding their capacity and resources, these developments aim to enhance inmate support services. Westville Correctional Facility, Warrick County Jail, Madison County Jail, and Monroe County Jail are some new jails being built in Indiana.

    Quick look

    • The state is developing new and modernized correctional facilities to address overcrowding, enhance rehabilitation, and improve safety.
    • Among the new jails being built in Indiana, key developments include the $1.2 billion Westville Correctional Facility and new jails in Warrick, Madison, and Monroe counties.
    • These facilities incorporate mental health units, vocational training spaces, and educational programs to support inmate reintegration.
    • With construction continuing through 2029, Indiana’s correctional system is set for a long-term transformation.

    Westville Correctional Facility

    Indiana is undertaking a significant project to replace both the Westville Correctional Facility and the Indiana State Prison in Michigan City with a modern, $1.2 billion complex. The new 1.4 million-square-foot campus is designed to accommodate up to 4,200 inmates, addressing current capacity challenges and consolidating operations from the nearby Indiana State Prison in Michigan City.

    Construction milestones

    The groundbreaking ceremony took place in September 2023, marking the commencement of this historic project—the most expensive state-building endeavor in Indiana’s history. 

    Key features

    The new facility emphasizes rehabilitation and safety, featuring an 18,000-square-foot educational space dedicated to academic and vocational training programs. A 400-bed unit is designated for mental health care and addiction recovery, reflecting the state’s commitment to comprehensive inmate support. Additionally, the complex includes two gymnasiums and a central utility plant to enhance operational efficiency.

    Projected completion

    As of February 2025, construction is progressing on schedule, with the facility expected to be operational by early 2027.

    Warrick County Jail

    Warrick County is constructing a new 234-bed jail to combat overcrowding and modernize its correctional facilities. This $55 million project will replace the existing facility, which has become insufficient due to increased inmate populations and administrative demands.

    Construction milestones

    Construction began in mid-2024, with a groundbreaking ceremony held in April 2024. Warrick County Sheriff Mike Wilder said the new jail has been in the planning stages for six years, partly driven by the county’s growing inmate population. Overcrowding has become a pressing issue, straining resources and limiting the facility’s ability to provide adequate housing and rehabilitation programs. While the pandemic temporarily reduced the number of inmates, the relief was short-lived.

    “So in the short term that actually helped our jail population,” Wilder said. “But right now, we’ve already seen our jail population kind of back up again, back up to where it’s going to exceed how many beds you have, very shortly again.”

    With the jail population rising again, the new facility is designed to provide the additional capacity and updated infrastructure needed to manage long-term inmate housing more effectively.

    Key features

    The 83,000-square-foot facility’s modern layout enhances safety and operational efficiency. It includes dedicated spaces for rehabilitation programs, such as classrooms and counseling areas, to support inmate education and reintegration efforts.

    Projected completion

    As of February 2025, the project is progressing on schedule. The facility is expected to be fully operational by spring 2026, providing improved accommodations and resources for inmates and staff.

    Madison County Jail

    Madison County is undertaking a significant project to replace its outdated jail with a new 525-bed facility. The total project cost is estimated at $105.5 million and aims to address overcrowding and modernize the county’s correctional infrastructure.

    Construction milestones

    In September 2024, county commissioners approved a $97.5 million construction contract with Garmong Construction. Site preparation began shortly thereafter, with construction at the 37-acre site on Broadway in Anderson expected to take approximately 30 months.

    Key features

    The facility’s design includes dormitory-style housing for low-level offenders, providing a more rehabilitative environment. Additionally, there are dedicated spaces for mental health and substance abuse programs, reflecting a commitment to comprehensive inmate care.

    Projected completion

    Construction is expected to conclude by late 2026, and the new jail will become operational shortly thereafter. This development aims to enhance safety, efficiency, and inmate support within Madison County’s correctional system.

    Monroe County Jail

    Monroe County is moving forward with plans to construct a new justice complex to address chronic overcrowding and modernize its correctional facilities. The project carries an estimated budget of approximately $200 million.

    Construction milestones

    In late 2024, county officials finalized the selection of the North Park property as the site for the new facility. Subsequently, in November 2024, the county commissioners approved a contract with WGS—a consortium comprising Weddle Bros. Building Group, Garmong Construction, and Smoot Construction—to serve as the construction manager for the project.

    Key features

    The design of the new complex emphasizes educational and rehabilitation spaces, reflecting a commitment to inmate reform and reducing recidivism. “This is not just a build it to fill it; this is a build it to have an education space,” said Monroe County Councilmember Trent Deckard. Additionally, the facility incorporates design elements to prevent future overcrowding, ensuring a sustainable environment for inmates and staff.

    Projected completion

    Construction is projected to be completed by February 2029, and the facility will become operational shortly thereafter. This timeline aims to provide Monroe County with a state-of-the-art correctional facility that meets current and future needs.

    Bottom line

    Indiana is making substantial investments in its correctional infrastructure; new jails being built in Indiana are expected to improve facility conditions, reduce overcrowding, and enhance rehabilitation programs. From the large-scale redevelopment of the Westville Correctional Facility to new, modernized jails in Warrick County, Madison County, and Monroe County, Indiana’s correctional system is set for a major transformation that could positively impact public safety and inmate reintegration efforts in the coming years.

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  • Ritz-Carlton Residences bring luxury waterfront living to The Woodlands

    Ritz-Carlton Residences bring luxury waterfront living to The Woodlands

    Construction is officially underway on The Ritz-Carlton Residences in The Woodlands, Texas, marking a new era of upscale living in one of the nation’s top-ranked communities. The $210 million project, developed by Howard Hughes Holdings Inc., broke ground in October 2024 on the last major residential site along Lake Woodlands. Designed by Robert A.M. Stern Architects, the Residences blend classical architecture with the natural surroundings, offering a collection of high-end homes with breathtaking lakefront views. 

    A new standard for luxury living  

    The Ritz-Carlton Residences are designed to provide an unmatched level of comfort, convenience, and sophistication. Future residents will enjoy an extensive range of amenities, including a resort-style infinity-edge swimming pool overlooking the lake, a state-of-the-art fitness center, and beautifully landscaped gardens. The property will also feature private dining rooms, a business center, and social lounges for residents to gather and entertain. With all of these amenities included, the demand has been overwhelming—69% of units were pre-sold before construction even began, showcasing the strong market interest in this exclusive development.  

    Another major draw is the location. Located just 27 miles north of Houston, this master-planned community is nestled in the heart of The Woodlands. Consistently ranked among the best places to live in America, it attracts professionals, families, and retirees looking for a high quality of life. Outside of the amenities, The Residences offer easy access to high-end shopping, fine dining, golf courses, and outdoor recreational spaces. With its blend of urban convenience and natural beauty, the development promises to deliver an extraordinary living experience, combining world-class design, five-star amenities, and an unbeatable location.  

    The team behind the project  

    Bringing a development of this scale and prestige to life requires expertise from some of the most respected names in architecture and design. Robert A.M. Stern Architects, known for their elegant and timeless approach, is leading the project’s architectural design. Meyer Davis, an internationally recognized design studio, is responsible for the interiors, ensuring that every space exudes luxury and refinement. Howard Hughes Holdings Inc., a company renowned for its master-planned communities, is overseeing the project’s development, adding another standout property to its portfolio.  

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  • Seattle-Tacoma International Airport expansion project reaches $260 million for Turner Construction

    Seattle-Tacoma International Airport expansion project reaches $260 million for Turner Construction

    Turner Construction’s expansion of the C Concourse at Seattle-Tacoma International Airport has reached the end of vertical construction, with steel topping out completed and a $260 million milestone reached. 

    The project, set for completion in 2026, spans six stories and over 226,000 square feet, adding four additional levels to the existing building and offering an elevated flyer experience. Key project highlights include a meditation room, a rooftop photovoltaic array, a nursing room, and two airfield observation decks. The new floors will also expand the airport’s dining and retail options, add additional seating, and provide 1,300 sq ft of extra waiting area for passengers. 

    Photo source: Turner Construction

    Bill Ketcham, Vice President and General Manager at Turner Construction Company, states, “We are proud to celebrate the topping out of this transformative project at Seattle-Tacoma International Airport. This milestone reflects the dedication of our team and partners, including our collaboration with the Port of Seattle, and underscores our shared commitment to sustainability. This project exemplifies how we can construct essential infrastructure that benefits both travelers and the environment.”

    This is the first project at Sea-Tac to include the Port of Seattle’s Sustainable Evaluation Framework. The project also adheres to the Port Century Agenda’s sustainability goals. The construction project is set to achieve LEED Gold status, which reflects its innovative integration of energy-conscious systems and eco-friendly elements. LEED is a globally recognized scoring system for the sustainability of buildings by the U.S. Green Building Council (USGBC). 

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  • 10 mixed-use construction projects on the go in 2025

    10 mixed-use construction projects on the go in 2025

    2025 is bringing a lot of megaprojects to North America, from mixed-use bridges to condos, piers, and more. Projected costs are well into the billions for many, and the amenities, design, and sustainability features are often state-of-the-art. Expect to see projects like the Highland Bridge, Veridea, Willets Point, Esplanade, and others reach near completion before the year is up.

    10 data projects on the go in 2025

    1. Park Eight Place

    • Location: Houston, TX
    • Cost/budget: $1 billion (projected)
    • Contractors: Johnson Development
    • Groundbreak: Late 2024

    Johnson Development kicked off the construction of Park Eight Place in the heart of Houston’s Westchase District in late 2024. The new 70-acre site is projected to cost $1 billion and is designed to promote healthier lifestyles to residents. The multi-use space will feature sustainable and eco-friendly design and technology and will be seamlessly integrated with the 200-acre Arthur Storey Park. A beautiful trail system will connect residents to the metro area through the blend of green space, hospitality, retail, and dining. 

    2. Peoria Place

    • Location: Peoria, AZ
    • Cost/budget: $500 million
    • Contractors: Greystar
    • Groundbreak: May 2023

    Charleston, South Carolina-based construction company Greystar is midway into multiple sections of the $500 million Peoria Place developmet. This site will include 255 build-to-rent- homes, 700 rental apartments, a light industrial park, and 20 acres of open green space. 

    The industrial center broke ground first, followed by the residential development, Marlowe Peoria Place, in January 2024. Once finalized, Marlowe will include 370 apartments and 4,600 square feet of retail space. 

    3. Willets Point

    • Location: Queens, NY
    • Cost/budget: $3 billion
    • Contractors: Related Cos.
    • Groundbreak: June 2021

    Queens is going to see a revitalization of a 62-acre section near the Flushing River, thanks to NYC-based Related Cos. Once an ash dumping ground, Willets Point is going from an auto shop and junkyard stop to $3 billion redevelopment of new affordable homes. The site will also feature over 20,000 square feet of retail, a 40,000 square foot multi-use public space, and a 650-student public school. By 2027, a new $780 million stadium for the New York City Football Club is also expected to open.

    4. The Boulevard

    • Location: Plymouth, MN
    • Cost/budget: $300 million 
    • Contractors: Roers Cos.
    • Groundbreak: 2024

    Minnesota will see many new mixed-use development projects completed in 2025. The Boulevard will bring hundreds of new housing units and commercial development to the former Prudential campus near Bass Lake Road. A medical office, business campus, retail, and many dining options will round out the project, which sits on acres of green space complete with a small lake. 

    5. South Pier

    • Location: Tempe, AZ
    • Cost/budget: $1.8 billion 
    • Contractors: Cantor Fitzgerald, Silverstein Properties
    • Groundbreak: 2023

    Tempe, Arizona’s South Pier is set to be a $1.8 billion master-planned community on Tempe Town Lake Waterfront. The project, by Cantor Fitzgerald, has reached topping out of phase one, a three-building site called Shorehaven, featuring mixing retail, residential, and leisure space. 

    The NYC-based developers also plan to build a multi-acre complex of condos, apartments, hotels, and office towers, complete with an entertainment pier, on the Opportunity Zone site. 

    Shorehaven will have 20,000 square feet of indoor amenities, 30,000 square feet of outdoor amenities, and 26,000 square feet of retail. The 772 condos consist of a mix of studios to three bedrooms.

    6. Highland Bridge 

    • Location: St. Paul, MN
    • Cost/budget: $1billion +
    • Contractors: Ryan Cos.
    • Groundbreak: 2024

    St. Paul’s Highland Bridge project is a redevelopment of the 122-acre former Ford Motor plant. This mixed-use development includes 150,000 square feet of retail, 3,800 housing units, 55 acres of park space, and 265,000 square feet of offices. 

    The park space includes open green areas, waterways, and parks with over 10 miles of biking paths. The project provides jobs to thousands, with over 1,000 remaining post-construction jobs. The Highland Bridge is the most extensive urban solar array in the twin cities, with 100% of the site energy from renewable sources. 

    7. Veridea

    • Location: Apex, NC
    • Cost/budget: $3 billion
    • Contractors: RXR
    • Groundbreak: December 2024

    From the New York City-based real estate firm RXR comes Veridea, Apex North Carolina’s new $3 billion mixed-use project. Located just southwest of Raleigh, this development features 1,100 acres of multi-family units, retail and commercial space, dining options, and over 200,000 square feet of industrial space for a new Wake Tech Community College campus. 

    Veridea will feature nearly 8,000 residential units, 3.5 million square feet of retail, and even a new public elementary school after completion. 

    8. Habitat

    • Location: Los Angeles, CA
    • Cost/budget: $316 million
    • Contractors: Lendlease
    • Groundbreak: 2023

    Los Angeles’ Habitat is a 3.5-acre project in the Culver City submarket. The mixed-use property has a six-story office and 12-story apartment building and a $316 million price tag. Sydney-based Lendlease is spearheading the project with the Australian superannuation fund Aware Super. The project is set to be a net-zero-carbon property, with integrated solar and 64 dedicated electric vehicle parking spaces. 

    Upon completion, the site will have 260 multifamily units and 2,900 square feet of retail and dining space. Apartments range from studios to two-bedroom units. 

    9. The Heights

    • Location: Saint Paul, MN
    • Cost/budget: $430 million
    • Contractors: Saint Paul Port Authority
    • Groundbreak: July 2023

    The Heights, a major mixed-use redevelopment project in St. Paul, Minnesota, aims to deliver 1,000 homes, 1,000 jobs, and 20 acres of park trails and open space. The project is located on the former Hillcrest Golf Course and is set to help St. Paul reach net zero greenhouse gases by 2050, thanks to their geothermal energy solutions. 

    Construction on 30 single-family homes began in 2024 as part of the Carter Build and is expected to be completed in 2025.

    10. Esplanade

    • Location: Pittsburgh, PA
    • Cost/budget: $740 million
    • Contractors: Piatt Cos.
    • Groundbreak: 2025

    2025 also marks the start of the first phase of Pittsburgh’s Esplanade, a $740 million redevelopment project on nearly 15 acres of post-industrial land on the city’s North end. The project will feature retail, entertainment, and housing. 

    Piatt Cos. spearheads the new project, which includes 1.7 million square feet of total developed space. The completion will bring 300 apartments, a 125-room hotel, 105 condos, and restaurant and retail area, complete with a 164-ft Ferris wheel.

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  • DPS and Gilbane team up for major Albany NanoTech expansion

    DPS and Gilbane team up for major Albany NanoTech expansion

    New York’s push to remain a semiconductor research and innovation leader is getting a significant boost. The Albany NanoTech Complex—already a world-class nanotechnology and semiconductor R&D hub—is set for a significant expansion, thanks to a strategic partnership between DPS Group (now a part of Arcadis) and Gilbane.

    Albany NanoTech Complex. Photo source: NY CREATES.

    This collaboration, known as DPS Gilbane, combines DPS Group’s semiconductor facility design and engineering expertise with Gilbane’s construction and project management capabilities. The project, commissioned by NY CREATES, aims to expand research capabilities, strengthen the supply chain, and solidify New York’s position as a key player in the global semiconductor industry.

    A landmark expansion for semiconductor innovation

    The Albany NanoTech Complex is North America’s most advanced public-private semiconductor R&D center, housing cutting-edge research facilities that attract top talent and industry leaders. The expansion project will enhance these capabilities, offering more space for advanced research, workforce training, and new partnerships with major semiconductor manufacturers.

    The DPS Gilbane joint venture ensures a seamless approach to the project, combining high-level design, engineering, and construction expertise. Both companies bring decades of experience delivering high-tech infrastructure, making them the ideal team to execute such a complex and high-stakes expansion.

    The semiconductor industry is experiencing rapid growth, and with increasing demand for domestic manufacturing and research capabilities, this expansion comes at a crucial time. The project will support workforce development, supply chain resilience, and cutting-edge innovation, aligning with the broader national push for semiconductor self-sufficiency.

    Albany NanoTech Complex expansion. Photo source: Gilbane.

    “This Complex is poised to play a pivotal role in shaping the future of semiconductor innovation here in New York and across the country,” said Christian Calabrese, Senior Project Executive at Gilbane Building Company. “We’re committed to delivering this design-build project with quality, excellence, and precision to help support this hub for cutting-edge research and collaboration between academia and the industry. Our Joint Venture team will focus on collaboration and innovation to drive the best outcomes on this project.”

    About DPS Advanced Technology Group, Inc.

    DPS Advanced Technology Group, Inc., part of the Arcadis family, is a global leader in engineering, design, and project management in high-tech industries. Specializing in advanced process manufacturing and semiconductor facility development, DPS brings deep expertise in delivering cutting-edge, complex infrastructure projects. Their role in the Albany NanoTech Complex expansion reinforces their commitment to driving innovation in the semiconductor industry.

    About Gilbane Building Company

    With over 150 years of experience, Gilbane Building Company is a powerhouse in construction management, design-build, and facility planning. As a family-owned business with a global reach, Gilbane takes pride in delivering high-quality projects across industries, from commercial and healthcare to science and technology.

    For over 75 years, Gilbane has played a key role in shaping New York’s infrastructure, bringing expertise in managing complex, high-profile builds. Their experience makes them the perfect partner for this next chapter in Albany NanoTech Complex’s growth.

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  • HITT Contracting aims to achieve net-zero energy and carbon objectives with new HQ

    HITT Contracting aims to achieve net-zero energy and carbon objectives with new HQ

    On January 23, 2025, HITT Contracting, a leading national commercial construction firm, began building its new 270,000-square-foot, six-story headquarters in Falls Church, Virginia, near Washington, D.C. The headquarters will feature a state-of-the-art research lab, a 100,000-square-foot solar canopy that will generate all its energy needs, wind turbines, and an advanced Power over Ethernet (PoE) system to optimize efficiency.

    Photo source: HITT Contracting

    Designed by Gensler, the new headquarters is built with sustainability in mind, aiming for LEED Platinum certification and net-zero energy and carbon status. Several innovative features will help achieve these goals:

    • 100,000-square-foot solar canopy and wind turbines – These renewable energy sources will generate the building’s power, eliminating reliance on traditional energy.
    • Advanced Power over Ethernet (PoE) system – A cutting-edge system that efficiently controls lighting, electrical power, and data, reducing energy waste.
    • 3D-printed recycled office furniture – HITT’s in-house 3D printing farm will create sustainable office furnishings from repurposed materials, cutting down on waste.
    • HyperWall building envelope system – Developed with Building Composites, this next-generation building envelope is lighter, stronger, and more energy-efficient, optimizing performance and sustainability.
    • 40,000-square-foot research lab – In partnership with Virginia Tech’s Coalition for Smart Construction, this facility will focus on hands-on research and development to address sustainability challenges, labor shortages, and material innovation in the built environment.

    This project, set to open in early 2027, reflects HITT’s 88-year history in Fairfax County and its commitment to the local community. Located just steps from the West Falls Church Metro station, HITT’s new headquarters will make commuting easier for over 900 team members while supporting sustainable urban development.

    Photo source: HITT Contracting

    The building will feature several worker amenities to make working there a treat. This will include communal workspaces, a wellness facility, and a one-acre outdoor terrace filled with greenery—perfect for taking a relaxing lunch break.

    Employees and visitors will have access to a full-service conference center with a café on the ground floor. Regardless of the type of day, this new facility sets the bar high for any future headquarters.

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  • Turner begins construction of New York City’s first soccer-specific stadium  

    Turner begins construction of New York City’s first soccer-specific stadium  

    Turner Construction has broken ground on Etihad Park, New York City’s first soccer-specific stadium and the future home of New York City Football Club (NYCFC). Located in Willets Point, Queens, this $780 million project marks a significant milestone in urban development and sports infrastructure for the city. The 25,000-seat stadium is part of a larger redevelopment plan that includes affordable housing, retail spaces, a hotel, and a new public school, creating a vibrant new destination for both soccer fans and the local community.

    Key features

    Designed with NYCFC fans in mind, the stadium’s architecture prioritizes creating an exceptional game-day experience. Spectator seating will offer optimal sightlines, allowing fans to feel close to the action, while acoustics are engineered to amplify the crowd’s energy. The project’s architects and engineers have worked closely with supporters to incorporate community input, ensuring the stadium reflects the passion of its dedicated fan base. This collaboration extends beyond design and into the spirit of the venue, aiming to make it a cultural hub for soccer in the city.

    Renders courtesy of HOK.

    Sustainability and inclusivity are core features of Etihad Park. The stadium will employ energy-efficient systems and environmentally friendly materials to minimize its ecological footprint. Accessibility is also a key focus, with the design featuring accommodations for fans with disabilities, ensuring that every visitor has a comfortable and enjoyable experience. The commitment to sustainability aligns with New York City’s broader goals of reducing carbon emissions and embracing green building practices.

    In addition to its design and environmental features, the project promises significant economic benefits for the local community. Turner Construction is partnering with local unions to create thousands of jobs during the building phase, while ongoing operations will generate long-term employment opportunities. The inclusion of affordable housing and public amenities as part of the Willets Point redevelopment will also provide lasting value to the Queens community.

    Renders courtesy of HOK.

    When completed in 2027, Etihad Park will serve as the operational heart of NYCFC and a key driver in transforming Willets Point into a dynamic destination for residents and visitors. The stadium is poised to become an architectural landmark in New York City, blending cutting-edge design with community-centered development.

    It’s a bold step forward for both NYCFC and the city itself, bringing together fans, residents, and businesses to create a shared space that embodies the passion of soccer and the vibrancy of New York.

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  • Data center construction projects underway in 2025

    Data center construction projects underway in 2025

    Data centers are big business, with tech giants like Google, Amazon, and Meta going full steam ahead on new construction in 2025. Data center facilities are often massive, spanning thousands of square feet and employing thousands of workers during construction. Projects underway in 2025 include Amazon’s $2 billion data center in Sunbury, Ohio, Google’s $600 million Mesa, Arizona facility, and Stargate, a $100 billion joint venture between OpenAI, SoftBank, and Oracle.

    2025 data center construction projects to watch

    Amazon

    Photo source: The Columbus Dispatch

    Internet retailer Amazon continues its expansion into data center operations with construction projects in Ohio and Mississippi in 2025. 

    • Location: Sunbury, Ohio
    • Cost/budget: $2 billion
    • Contractor: Undisclosed

    Amazon’s 2025 development plans include a $2 billion data center currently under construction in Sunbury, Ohio. The facility is scheduled to break ground in early 2028, and construction will span six years, wrapping up in December 2034. The Sunbury center is part of Amazon’s larger investment into Ohio, totaling $7.8 billion by the end of 2029. 

    • Location: Madison County, Mississippi
    • Cost/budget: $10 billion
    • Contractor: Yates Construction, Gray Construction, and Haskell Construction

    Amazon plans to build two data centers in Madison County, Mississippi, for a combined cost of $10 billion. The project will create 1000 jobs during its construction, which is expected to be completed in 2027. Amazon selected three general contractors to oversee the construction of the data centers through a bidding process: Yates Construction, Gray Construction, and Haskell Construction.   

    Google

    California tech giant Google has several data center projects underway in 2025, including a $600 million facility in Mesa, Arizona, and a 580-acre facility in Lincoln, Nebraska. 

    • Location: Mesa, Arizona
    • Cost/budget: $600 million
    • Contractors: None yet confirmed

    Google’s $600 million data center in Mesa, Arizona, broke ground in July 2023 and is scheduled for completion in July 2025. The data center’s first phase, which spans 250,000 square feet, will help power popular Google offerings like Gmail, Maps, and Search.

    • Location: Fort Wayne, Indiana
    • Cost/budget: $2 billion
    • Contractors: Holder Construction

    Construction on Google’s Fort Wayne, Indiana, campus broke ground in April 2024 and is ongoing throughout 2025. The facility will power Google’s global cloud and AI infrastructure, and it is rumored to span over 700 acres.

    • Location: Lincoln, Nebraska
    • Cost/budget: $600 million 
    • Contractors: Undisclosed

    Google’s data center in Lincoln, Nebraska, covers almost 580 acres near Interstate 80 and North 56th Street. Currently in development, the center’s construction began in August of 2023 and joins Google’s existing Nebraska data centers in Papillon and Omaha.  

    Meta

    Meta is planning robust investment in data center construction throughout 2025 as the tech giant continues its foray into AI. 

    • Location: Aiken, South Carolina
    • Cost/budget: $800 million
    • Contractors: Undisclosed

    This 715,000 facility is Meta’s 22nd US data center. Located in the Sage Mill Industrial Park, the data center will be complete in 2027 and provide 100 local jobs.

    • Location: Cheyenne, Wyoming
    • Cost/budget: $800 million 
    • Contractors: Fortis Construction

    Meta’s Cheyenne, Wyoming, data center will be built by Fortis Construction and will employ approximately 1,000 workers during its construction. The facility will be over 700,000 square feet. 

    • Location: Jeffersonville, Indiana
    • Cost/budget: $800 million
    • Contractors: Turner Construction

    In January 2024, Meta began constructing its data center in Jeffersonville, Indiana, with contractor Turner Construction. The facility will be almost 700,000 square feet and constructed using prefabricated modular assemblies. Like all of Meta’s data centers, it will run on 100% renewable energy and achieve LEED gold certification. 

    • Location: Monroe, Louisiana
    • Cost/budget: $10 billion
    • Contractors: Turner Construction Company, DPR Construction, and M.A. Mortenson.

    When complete, Meta’s nine-building, 4-million-square-foot campus in Monroe, Louisiana, will be its largest yet. Construction began in December 2024 and will continue through 2030, with the project employing over 5000 workers at its peak construction. Construction will be shared between Turner Construction Company, DPR Construction, and M.A. Mortenson.

    • Location: Montgomery, Alabama
    • Cost/budget: $800+ million
    • Contractors: Hensel Phelps

    Colorado-based Hansel Phelps is the contractor for Meta’s Montgomery, Alabama, data center. At 715,000 square feet and a budget of over $800 million, the center represents a significant investment in Alabama’s economy and joins Meta’s existing data center in Huntsville, Alabama. 

    • Location: Rosemount, Minnesota
    • Cost/budget: $800 million
    • Contractors: Mortenson

    Meta’s data center in Rosemount, Minnesota, will be 715,000 square feet and located on a 280-acre site at UMore Park. It is currently under construction with Mortenson and is expected to be operational in 2026. 

    Stargate 

    Photo source: Data Center Dyanmics
    • Location: Abilene, Texas (and others)
    • Cost/budget: $100 billion
    • Contractors: Crusoe

    Stargate is a joint venture between OpenAI, SoftBank, and Oracle. To meet the growing demand for AI technology, Stargate​​ plans to invest over $100 billion in data center infrastructure to power the growing need for AI technology. Stargate will see the construction of 10 data centers, each 500,000 square feet, will be constructed under the project. The first data center, which will be located in Abilene, Texas, is already under construction with Denver, Colorado-based Crusoe.

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  • Pointe Vista at Lake Texoma: Redefining Oklahoma living 

    Pointe Vista at Lake Texoma: Redefining Oklahoma living 

    Pointe Vista at Lake Texoma is set to become a major attraction and residential hub in southern Oklahoma. The 3,000-acre master-planned community (MPC) includes exciting features such as a Hard Rock Hotel, a sprawling 11-acre Caribbean-style bay, and 2,800 homes. Positioned near one of the largest reservoirs in the United States, Pointe Vista is poised to draw residents and visitors alike with its blend of resort-style amenities and modern housing options.  

    Key features

    The Hard Rock Hotel will serve as a centerpiece, combining luxury accommodations with dining, entertainment, and recreational options. The development will also feature an 11-acre Caribbean Bay, complete with sandy beaches and a tropical aesthetic, offering a year-round destination for relaxation and activities. For residents, Pointe Vista promises a mix of housing types designed to suit different lifestyles, ranging from single-family homes to vacation rentals.  

    Developed by the Chickasaw Nation and under the direction of Commercial Realty Group, Pointe Vista reflects a commitment to quality and community. Builders and architects involved are focused on incorporating sustainable practices and creating an environment that blends seamlessly with the natural beauty of Lake Texoma. This focus is expected to appeal to those seeking a retreat that doesn’t compromise on amenities or access to outdoor recreation.  

    The community’s location near Lake Texoma positions it perfectly for outdoor enthusiasts. With opportunities for boating, fishing, and hiking, the area complements the development’s focus on creating a balanced lifestyle. The project also brings economic benefits, with job creation during construction and long-term opportunities tied to hospitality and tourism.  

    Pointe Vista showcases a forward-thinking approach to community design, highlighting the importance of blending natural surroundings with cutting-edge infrastructure. Whether you’re interested in exploring Caribbean Bay, enjoying the Hard Rock experience, or making one of the residences your home, this development will offer something for everyone.  

    Ready to stay updated on projects like Pointe Vista? Subscribe to Under the Hard Hat for more insights on groundbreaking construction and design innovations. 

  • An inside look at Populous: 3,500 projects and $60 billion of modern architecture

    An inside look at Populous: 3,500 projects and $60 billion of modern architecture

    Populous is a global architectural powerhouse renowned for creating dynamic spaces that unite communities. Over the past 40 years, the firm has completed over 3,500 projects across six continents, collectively valued at over $60 billion. Specializing in sports, entertainment, and public assembly venues, Populous transforms design into experiences that foster connection and engagement.

    Orange County Convention Center Expansion, Orlando, USA. Photo source: Populous.

    What Populous offers

    Populous offers a range of specialized services that extend beyond traditional architecture. Their expertise includes interior design, urban planning, landscape architecture, branding, and event overlay design. From major event venues for the Olympics to local community centers, their multidisciplinary approach ensures that every project meets its users’ specific cultural and functional needs.

    Populous is also a leader in creating branded environments and wayfinding systems that enhance user experiences in complex spaces. Their sustainable design consulting helps clients achieve ambitious environmental goals, making them a preferred partner for forward-thinking organizations.

    Notable projects 

    BMO Centre, Calgary, AB, Canada. Photo source: Populous.

    Populous has delivered a wide range of notable venues, each tailored to meet the specific needs of its users while emphasizing functionality and design. Some of their key projects include:

    • London 2012 Olympic Stadium: Built as the main venue for the Olympic Games, this stadium was designed to be modular, reducing materials used and making it adaptable for future events. 
    • Yankee Stadium (New York): This stadium combines modern facilities like expanded concourses and updated seating while retaining design elements that reflect the history of the original stadium.
    • Tottenham Hotspur Stadium (London): Designed to support football and NFL games, the stadium features a retractable pitch allowing quick transitions between uses.
    • Mercedes-Benz Stadium (Atlanta): This stadium, which has a unique retractable roof, incorporates sustainable design features like a rainwater capture system and solar panels.
    • Climate Pledge Arena (Seattle): A renovation project of the Seattle Center Coliseum, this arena integrates renewable energy and advanced water conservation systems. It was designed to meet net-zero carbon certification while maintaining the building’s historic facade.

    These projects highlight Populous’s ability to deliver beautifully designed spaces with functionality-focused amenities.

    Recognized as industry leaders shaping communities

    Toronto Performance Venue + Hotel, Toronto, ON, CA. The concept design for the multipurpose Toronto Performance Venue + Hotel is to create a next-generation destination where live immersive events elevate the spectator experience. Photo source: Populous.

    Populous’s dedication to innovation and sustainability has earned them numerous accolades, including being named Fast Company’s Most Innovative Company in Architecture for 2022. This honor was largely due to their work on the Climate Pledge Arena, which integrates net-zero energy systems and innovative design elements.

    At its core, Populous is driven by its mission to design spaces that unite people. Their work resonates with a global audience, blending functionality, cultural significance, and unforgettable experiences. Whether it’s a bustling stadium on game day or a serene convention center fostering new ideas, Populous’s designs reflect the needs and aspirations of the communities they serve.

    Don’t miss out on how industry leaders like Populous are transforming the spaces where communities connect. Subscribe to our newsletter and stay informed about the innovations shaping the future of architecture—before your competitors do.