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Data centers and the multiplier effect
- September 1, 2026: Vol. 13, Number 8

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Data centers and the multiplier effect

by Ed Del Beccaro

Investors are taking note that data centers are the new major property type they should be considering for their portfolios. It was reported in the February 2026 issue of ConstructConnect News that U.S. data center spending totaled $11.5 billion with first quarter 2026 coming at $36.9 billion. This compares with $1.4 billion in all of 2025.

If this construction spending continues at this pace, year-end spending could reach $116 billion. Most of this spending takes place in Virginia, Texas and other parts of southeast United States considered top-tier power sites. Pennsylvania, Indiana, Ohio and Oregon could also see significant investment in this area.

This investment in data centers is driven by a massive structural shift toward artificial intelligence. Tech giants are aggressively deploying capital into digital infrastructure, forcing them to outbid traditional commercial real estate sectors for land, labor and equipment. The tech giants are investing hundre

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