Conway City Council approves MOU for major data center project with Fortune 100 company

The Conway City Council took a significant step forward in economic development during a special meeting on April 1, 2025, by discussing a major project that could reshape the local job market. The council is considering a memorandum of understanding (MOU) involving a Fortune 100 company that plans to establish a data center campus in Conway. This project promises to bring hundreds of high-quality, permanent jobs to the area, making it a pivotal moment for the community.

The proposed data center is expected to unfold in five phases over the next five to eight years, with substantial economic benefits anticipated even during the construction phase. The project will require property tax abatements, a common tool used in Arkansas to attract businesses, which the council emphasized as critical for the project's viability. Without these incentives, the company may choose to relocate elsewhere.

The MOU involves collaboration between the city, Conway Corp, and the Conway Foundation, highlighting a unified approach to economic growth. The council members expressed enthusiasm about the potential partnership, noting the importance of local contractors in the construction process, which aligns with the community's interests.

In addition to the immediate job opportunities, the data center will offer a range of employment options, catering to various skill levels from high school graduates to those with advanced degrees. This diversity in job offerings is expected to enhance the local workforce and provide residents with new career paths.

As the council moves forward with this agreement, the focus remains on ensuring that the benefits of this project extend to the entire Conway community, reinforcing the city's commitment to economic development and job creation. The next steps will involve further discussions and votes from the involved entities, paving the way for what could be a transformative project for Conway.