Morrisey announces new data center by Google for Putnam County

By RealWV Staff,

CHARLESTON, WV — On Friday morning, Gov. Patrick Morrisey announced that Google has purchased land in Putnam County upon which they plan to build a “multibillion-dollar high impact data center.” State approval is required for such projects and appears to have been granted, while local approval is not considered as per state law passed by legislators in 2025.

“Google’s decision to come in West Virginia is a strong signal that our state is competing and winning for the jobs and industries of the future,” said Morrisey. “This is exactly the kind of opportunity we are working to bring here – one that creates jobs, strengthens infrastructure, and positions West Virginia for long-term growth.”

Morrisey added that Google will cover all infrastructure costs. “I am also pleased to announce that Google has committed to covering all necessary electrical and water and sewer upgrades associated with this project, ensuring those costs are not passed on to residential households. Google has further pledged to replenish more water than it consumes by 2030, targeting 120 percent replenishment on average across its operations while supporting water security in the communities where it operates. We are excited about this partnership between the State of West Virginia and Google.”

Google commented, via Clay Allsop, that the project is in the early stages. “We’re excited to share that Google has purchased land in Putnam County, West Virginia, for a new data center campus. We are early in the process, and substantial work remains, but we are appreciative of the strong business environment created by Governor Morrisey to provide a pathway for projects of this scale. We look forward to partnering with the Governor and local leaders in Putnam County on this opportunity here in West Virginia.”

The Putnam County Development Authority posted on social media in support of the project: “We are excited to see how this project can positively impact West Virginia.” They also noted that Google’s data centers typically employ 400 people at a salary which averages $100,000. Finally, the said that Google works with local union and non-union subcontractors for the lengthy construction process,

Stay tuned to RealWV for updates.