New state data center for Springfield's east side

The State of Illinois has announced the purchase of 9.4 acres of land at the Dirksen Business Park in the 2900 block of Dotmar Drive, which will be home to a new data center. The $80.5 million facility will be run by the state Department of Innovation and Technology and will reportedly enable the state to be a "leader in technology and innovation."

Speaking about what this facility means for the State, Gov. J.B. Pritzker commented: "Through this new facility, we're enhancing the State of Illinois' digital infrastructure and doing so while bringing hundreds of new jobs to the east side of Springfield."

Meanwhile, Jennifer Ricker, Acting Secretary for DoIT, added: "With the evolution of technology and DoIT's continuing modernization of digital assets, the current data center has grown less suitable for our needs."

According to state Sen. Doris Turner, D-Springfield, the relocation of the facility to Springfield's Eastside is a "game changer" and will encourage economic development into the area, allowing the state to expand its technological opportunities.