A worker is seen preparing a plot of land for a future AI data center, with a refurbished power plant in the backdrop, on Tuesday, March 24, 2026, in Independence, Mo. This setting reflects America’s historic commitment to developing infrastructures that drive prosperity. Our nation’s history includes constructing railroads, interstates, and internet systems. All these required foresight, technical skills, and materials. They fueled growth and security.
Currently, a new foundation is under construction. Data centers along with their energy sources form the backbone of artificial intelligence. This technology is expected to drive the next wave of American prosperity. However, as this development begins, several communities and states move towards halting progress, proposing moratoriums and bans. Halting AI infrastructure growth is a critical error. Communities should indeed scrutinize electricity, water, and location concerns. Residents, including workers, raise families in these areas. Yet, a blanket ban is not the solution. It risks losing out on jobs and investment opportunities.
America, now the leading global hub for data center investments, has thousands operating facilities and more under construction. Central Ohio exemplifies this growth, with such construction activities occupying 40% of building trade work hours. In a single year, three campuses have facilitated approximately 6.5 million construction worker hours. These figures represent real people: electricians, pipefitters, engineers, carpenters, and numerous skilled professionals. They earn good wages and secure healthcare and retirement benefits. Young apprentices find debt-free paths to middle-class stability.
A personal observation comes from growing up in southern Ohio, where job loss and community decline remain vivid memories. A new project in Piketon is set to employ tens of thousands, finally bringing significant economic revival to the region. Similar stories of data center-driven renewal echo nationwide. These projects extend far beyond construction. States and localities derive billions annually in tax revenue, aiding schools, roads, and emergency services. Local suppliers and businesses experience growth too.
Opposers of data center growth speak valid concerns. They require earnest responses. Communities should demand responsible development, oversight, planning, and siting. Participation in these decisions is crucial. Nonetheless, there’s a distinction between oversight and outright bans. Tools exist at each government level: zoning boards, siting authorities, and regulators manage and set project conditions. Lawmakers can address complex challenges with specific rules. A moratorium replaces detailed analysis with a simplistic ‘no.’
If we halt development, AI technologies elsewhere won’t pause. China continues its rapid AI expansion. Hesitation leads to losing jobs, talent, and technological preeminence. States succeeding in drawing investments will do so by solving problems while advancing. Those failing will have succumbed to inaction and broad prohibitions. Who constructs the future matters. America has always embraced building. We shouldn’t stop now.
Austin Keyser serves as International Vice President of the 4th District of the International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers. He represents members in Ohio, Kentucky, Maryland, Virginia, West Virginia, and the District of Columbia.