Data Center Campus
June 11 | 5:00-6:30 p.m.
Location:
Vantage Career Center
818 N Franklin St, Van Wert, OH 45891
Join us at Vantage Career Center for a community event with the QTS team. This is an opportunity to learn about the project, hear the latest updates, and ask any questions you may have. We look forward to connecting with you.
WHY QTS
We believe how we deliver our data centers is just as important as what we deliver. For Van Wert, that means taking a responsible, community‑first approach that considers local priorities, protects shared resources and contributes lasting value.
We partner with local utilities to pay 100% of our own energy use so that costs related to our projects are not pushed onto ratepayers.
As industry leaders in water preservation, we’re proud to save billions of gallons of water annually. Our data centers use a closed-loop system that doesn’t consume water for cooling.
We will create good-paying jobs for local residents and partner with local businesses. This includes both construction jobs during development and long‑term roles once the facility is operational, with a focus on hiring locally whenever possible.
Our commitment to community doesn’t stop at the data center doors. We invest in the places we call home, generating long-term tax revenue that helps fund local priorities such as schools, infrastructure and local services identified by the community.
We believe in being open and honest. We will listen to your voice and share updates on our progress and work together to make decisions that matter. As plans move forward, we will share updates through this page and other community channels so residents know what to expect.
A data center is a purpose-built building that stores a large amount of digital data. This data – and the applications used to create, process and share it – is housed in servers that reside within the data center. Data centers are vital hubs for businesses, governments and organizations that rely on technology.
There are many factors that QTS considers when looking at locations for data center development. Data centers require access to power, connectivity and a skilled workforce that not everywhere can provide. Another important factor is existing infrastructure that can support data center development, which this area already has established. Having infrastructure already in place significantly minimizes environmental and community disruption which is why we considered this site.
Van Wert County has demonstrated a strong interest in attracting new investment and supporting industries that bring long-term benefits to the community. Local leadership has expressed a commitment to responsible development, and the region has a workforce that can benefit from new jobs and associated economic activity.
QTS also considers environmental stewardship and the ability to design facilities that meet or exceed sustainability and operational standards. Van Wert County offers conditions that allow for responsible site planning and coordination with local and state officials as the project advances.
QTS Data Centers is investing in the future of Van Wert County with a data center campus in the City of Van Wert. We expect to build seven data center buildings across approximately 902 acres.
An initial site plan can be found below. Please note, the rendering below is for concept only. The designs are not final as we are still in the planning stages.
We take pride in constructing buildings with aesthetic appeal in the communities where we operate. We have a track record of working with local communities to ensure our buildings meet local design standards.
Although we are still in the early planning stages, we plan to minimize visual impacts on neighboring properties through substantial buffers and setbacks. We will incorporate buffer screens to conceal equipment from view and utilize landscaping techniques such as berms to enhance aesthetics
QTS is investing up to $10 billion in Van Wert to support regional growth and development.
This transformative project is expected to create thousands of construction jobs and hundreds of full-time positions, supporting local families and businesses and partnering with local building trades unions.
We estimate the project will generate millions in local tax revenue annually once the project is fully built out and operational, creating an opportunity to reduce tax burden for residents and support services and community programs throughout Van Wert County.
This investment reflects our belief that responsible growth means shared prosperity for the communities where we live, operate and raise our families
We anticipate that the development and operation of this data center campus will generate more than 1,500 construction jobs during the 5-6 year building phase, as well as up to 200 full-time QTS positions, depending on the final design.
In addition to the full time QTS positions, the project will also generate additional onsite jobs employed by our tenants and jobs tied to campus operations such as maintenance.
Beyond construction, data centers employ a wide range of onsite jobs across operations, project management, procurement, logistics, security and maintenance/technology.
Skillsets range from technical (electrical, mechanical, IT certifications) to administrative and security. Importantly, our Data Center Academy program provides paid training for individuals with no prior experience, creating a pathway to become a Critical Operations Technician.
We do not have a specific percentage goal; however, we will prioritize local hiring wherever possible. Through partnerships with local schools, technical colleges, and workforce programs, we aim for a significant portion of roles to be filled by residents.
We understand why people are interested in the power needs of this project. What we can share is that the facilities are designed to operate within the existing planning, regulatory and utility requirements for the area. We are working directly with local utilities to ensure that our power needs do not impact the reliability of service for homes or businesses in Richmond County and the surrounding areas.
While we don’t disclose specific power capacity for security and confidentiality reasons, we can reassure the community that the project has gone through the appropriate reviews, and the local grid has confirmed it can reliably support the site. As the project develops, we remain committed to ongoing dialogue with the community and local leaders.
QTS will pay for all project energy infrastructure and there will be no cost impact to existing AEP Ohio customers as a result.
QTS aspires to source the maximum amount of carbon-free energy. In 2024, QTS achieved full utilization of carbon-free operational electricity across our facilities. We work closely with utility companies to identify innovative and sustainable ways to best serve the communities in which we operate in and the environment.
QTS data centers are built with a closed-loop cooling system that does not consume water for cooling, once operational.
Once the cooling system is up and running, municipal water will only be used for everyday building needs – like bathrooms, kitchens, cleaning and landscaping – just like any other commercial building. For a typical building, we use less than average water use by industrial standards, using water only for bathrooms, kitchens, irrigation and humidification. This usage is about what 4 households use a month.
The closed-loop system that cools the data hall uses only water. We will need to initially charge the system with a one-time fill. The total initial charging volume can vary widely based on a variety of factors including power capacity and facility design. Since we’re still early in the planning stage for this development, it’s hard to predict the exact amount of water needed.
Protecting natural resources is an important part of our planning process, and we carefully evaluate potential environmental impacts before moving forward.
Environmental studies have identified a small impact to one stream on the property. This impact is limited in scope and falls below the federal threshold. It will be addressed in accordance with applicable state and federal regulations.
In addition, reviews by the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service have determined that the project is not expected to adversely affect any federally protected threatened or endangered species.
Overall, the project is designed to minimize environmental impacts, comply with all regulatory requirements, and responsibly manage natural resources as development plans move forward.
Diesel generators are used for emergency backup purposes only and are not the main source of power for our data centers. Generators are tested once a month for a short period of time for routine maintenance. Our diesel storage tanks are double-walled and equipped with interstitial leak monitoring and containment systems to minimize noise and ensure environmental protection. Additionally, our generators come equipped with high-efficiency filters to protect air quality and reduce emissions. These filters help minimize air pollutants and noise levels to keep the community safe in the limited cases that backup generators are needed.
QTS will apply for an air permit to the Department of Natural Resources (DNR). The DNR is the delegated permitting and enforcement arm, from the US EPA under the Clean Air Act, to ensure that air pollution is within acceptable levels.
Diesel generators are used for emergency backup purposes only and are not the main source of power for our data centers. Generators are tested once a month for a short period of time for routine maintenance. Our diesel storage tanks are double-walled and equipped with interstitial leak monitoring and containment systems to minimize noise and ensure environmental protection. Additionally, our generators come equipped with high-efficiency filters to protect air quality and reduce emissions. These filters help minimize air pollutants and noise levels to keep the community safe in the limited cases that backup generators are needed.
QTS will apply for an air permit to the Department of Natural Resources (DNR). The DNR is the delegated permitting and enforcement arm, from the US EPA under the Clean Air Act, to ensure that air pollution is within acceptable levels.
QTS has committed to conducting an acoustic analysis to ensure we comply with the proposed decibel thresholds and all local, state and federal noise emission regulations.
Our data centers are designed not to exceed permissible noise levels, and we implement a variety of sound mitigation strategies, including equipment enclosures, sound barriers and strategic grading and site layouts fit for each development.
QTS data center buildings are constructed to meet or exceed green building standards, which includes responsible lighting design. The lighting strategy will mitigate impact to wildlife and natural areas by implementing special lighting techniques. These include using directional lighting pointed downward and covered to reduce light pollution, lower wattage and brightness levels, motion sensors and automatic systems to avoid unnecessary lighting and landscaping to minimize light impact. All lighting plans will meet local and state code requirements.
While data centers are critical infrastructure, they are among the most secure and reliable facilities in technology.
QTS data centers are designed with multiple layers of physical, technical and environmental security controls including biometric access controls, 24/7 surveillance and advanced cybersecurity protocols.
QTS data centers use high-security fencing, often 8 to 12 feet tall. This fencing is made of steel and sometimes topped with barbed wire for added protection.
Yes. Entry points are limited and secured with gates controlled by badge access, biometric systems and security personnel.
The Van Wert Police Department and Van Wert Fire Station will be the primary responder for emergencies at the proposed facility. If the project moves forward, we will partner with the department to ensure they have the training, equipment and resources needed to respond effectively to an emergency and protect the community.
Data centers are built for long-term use and are designed to evolve with technology. While the physical structure remains durable and well-maintained, the internal systems (servers, cooling, electrical) are upgraded to keep pace with innovation and efficiency standards.
The QTS approach is modular and scalable, meaning we can integrate new technologies without major reconstruction. This ensures the facility stays operational for decades.
Our community engagement team is committed to building authentic, long-term partnerships with the Van Wert community. By listening to local priorities, fostering trust, and investing in meaningful programs, we aim to create a lasting, positive impact. We are excited to work alongside the community as this partnership grows.
We will continue to work closely with the City of Van Wert, Van Wert County and state agencies as the project moves through the development process.
We will share updates and maintain open communication with local leaders, residents and community partners as the project advances.
We understand that projects of this scale raise important questions and concerns, and we take them seriously. We’re committed to providing clear, timely updates through our FAQ page and ongoing communications.
Residents can reach us anytime via [email protected], our website comment form, or at upcoming community events
This map shows the general area where QTS is exploring a potential data center facility in Van Wert.
Campus Size
Development Scope
QTS Investment
Construction Jobs
Permanent Jobs
QTS continues to invest in Ohio. Beyond this project, we are building and operating campuses across the state. We are deeply committed to Ohio and its communities and we’re proud to contribute to the continued growth and success of the state. Check out our other Ohio data center campuses.
We are committed to actively recruiting veterans and providing the support they need to transition into rewarding civilian careers in Van Wert. By welcoming veterans onto our team, we are not just filling jobs. We are building a workforce grounded in integrity, discipline and a shared commitment to the community we call home.
At QTS, we believe that true economic growth happens when we invest in the people and places we call home. Our presence in Van Wert is a long-term partnership designed to bring meaningful opportunities to residents and strengthen the local economy for years to come. By working together, we are building a foundation of prosperity that benefits families, supports local businesses and creates a brighter future for the entire community.
Your feedback shapes our work. If you live or work in Van Wert, we welcome your perspective and questions at any stage of this process.
Looking for more context on how QTS builds and operates data centers in communities like Van Wert?
