Meta Expands Data Center in Richland Parish, Louisiana Boosting Local Economy

Meta announced a major expansion of its Hyperion data center in Richland Parish, Louisiana, more than doubling the facility’s size to meet growing demand for AI, advertising and social media services. The build‑out will add new server halls, electrical systems and cooling equipment, though the company disclosed no timeline or cost.

Local officials expect a surge in construction activity and long‑term technical jobs. For the first quarter of 2026, Richland Parish recorded $38.7 million in sales‑tax revenue—over six times the $5.3 million collected the same period a year earlier. Neighboring parishes such as Franklin and East Carroll also reported double‑digit sales‑tax gains tied to material deliveries and related services.

The project highlights Louisiana’s push to attract data‑center infrastructure beyond its traditional petrochemical and port sectors, while also raising community questions about power use, water consumption and any public incentives tied to the expansion.