As Florida leaders weigh how to manage rapid growth in digital infrastructure, business advocates say discussions about data centers should focus on economic facts and responsible oversight rather than fear.
“Data centers function as economic catalysts, helping regions diversify and future-proof their economies in an increasingly digital age,” said Brewster Bevis, president and CEO of the Associated Industries of Florida (AIF) in a Florida Politics op-ed. “Construction creates well-paying jobs, while ongoing operations support long-term technical and security positions.”
“In the 21st century, prosperity will follow places that build digital infrastructure,” Bevis said. “Data centers are not obstacles to overcome — they are valuable assets that can lower taxes, create stronger communities, and provide greater financial freedom for the families who call this state home.”
Polling from the AIF Center for Political Strategy found 64% of Florida voters support a new data center in their community when informed about potential benefits such as lower local taxes and increased funding for services, with support rising to 77% among Republicans, according to a release from AIF.
Large data center projects typically represent $500 million to more than $1 billion in capital investment, generating hundreds of construction jobs and tens of millions of dollars in local economic activity during multi-year buildouts, according to analysis from the U.S. Chamber of Commerce and CBRE. While data centers employ fewer permanent workers once operational—often 30 to 100 high-skilled jobs—those positions are among the highest-paying in local markets, with average salaries frequently exceeding $90,000, according to Deloitte. Local governments often see the most durable benefit through long-term property, utility, and sales tax revenue, as data centers place relatively low ongoing demands on schools, roads, and emergency services compared with other large industrial developments.
Advocates also point to research on energy costs tied to data center development. An independent study by Energy and Environmental Economics Inc., commissioned by Amazon, found the company pays fully for data center power costs and in some regions contributes additional revenue that utilities can use to modernize electric grids and improve reliability.
“As Florida leaders discuss legislation to regulate data center growth, it’s important to ensure these conversations stay grounded in facts, not fear,” Bevis said. “None of this is to say that data centers should be built without oversight or community engagement. Transparency, environmental standards, and fair taxation are essential. But we must stay focused on the facts.”
“When developed responsibly, data centers are clean, quiet neighbors that deliver massive benefits for Floridians,” he added.
Bevis serves as president and CEO of Associated Industries of Florida, a statewide business advocacy organization representing employers on economic and regulatory issue
