Historic Kansas City Star Building Set for Digital Transformation
Kansas City, Thursday, 14 November 2024.
Patmos announces plans to convert the iconic Kansas City Star building into a cutting-edge 100 MW data center. This $1 billion retrofit project symbolizes a shift from print media infrastructure to meeting digital demands, with the first 40 MW expected to be operational within 18 months.
A Strategic Move in Data Infrastructure
Patmos, a notable player in the data center industry, is embarking on a transformative journey with the Kansas City Star building. This initiative is not just a repurposing of a historic site but a strategic move to position Kansas City as a central hub for AI and machine learning innovations. By converting the former printing press facility into a technologically advanced data center, Patmos aims to leverage Kansas City’s strategic advantages, including its central location and access to affordable green energy.
Meeting the Growing Demand for Digital Solutions
The Kansas City Star building will house a state-of-the-art data center spanning 400,000 square feet. With an expected capacity of over 100 megawatts, this facility is designed to cater to high-density computing and AI innovation needs. Patmos plans to roll out the first 5 MW as early as next month, a testament to their commitment to rapid deployment and meeting the burgeoning demand for digital infrastructure. The project aligns with Kansas City’s burgeoning status as a data center powerhouse, supported by a robust fiber network and a favorable business climate.
Economic and Environmental Impact
The retrofit project is poised to generate significant economic benefits for Kansas City, including the creation of high-paying tech jobs. By capitalizing on the talent migration from tech-heavy regions like Silicon Valley, Patmos seeks to foster a vibrant tech ecosystem in the heartland. Additionally, the project underscores a commitment to sustainability by repurposing existing structures and minimizing environmental impact. Patmos’s approach highlights the potential for historic buildings to serve modern technological needs while contributing to economic revitalization.
A Vision for the Future
Patmos’s vision extends beyond mere infrastructure development. The Kansas City Star building will become a beacon for innovation, providing cloud and data solutions that promise free speech policies and technological services aimed at enhancing human potential. As quoted by Joe Morgan, CIO of Patmos, the existing infrastructure allows for cost-effective and timely construction, setting a new standard in the data center industry. The project not only revitalizes a historic landmark but also positions Kansas City as a key player in the global digital economy.