The Texas Advanced Computing Center (TACC) has solidified Round Rock's standing in the tech world by selecting it as the location for its latest AI supercomputer, named "Horizon." Housed at the Sabey Data Centers campus on Louis Henna Boulevard, the decision follows the Round Rock City Council's nod last year, approving an economic incentive to court Sabey Data Centers. According to a statement released by the City of Round Rock, the arrangement includes significant property investment and job creation.
Seattle-based Sabey Data Centers selected Round Rock for their expansion after demolishing the outdated Sears Teleserv building, clearing the path for cutting-edge facilities tailored to high-density computing. Recently, The University of Texas announced a substantial funding award from the National Science Foundation (NSF), citing a $457 million package set to elevate the computational capabilities of Horizon, beginning operations in 2026. According to a city release, compared to the center's existing system, Frontera, AI performance is expected to leap a hundredfold with Horizon at the helm.
Dan Stanzione, TACC's executive director, highlighted the colocation benefits of the Round Rock site for their high-density supercomputing needs, saying, "The demands of AI have driven the commercial data center space to look more like supercomputing data centers — liquid cooling, high density, and high efficiency." Stanzione told the City of Round Rock, illustrating how their operation harmonizes with current commercial data center developments.
Round Rock's strategic commitment to technology, as echoed by Mayor Craig Morgan, sees the city fortifying its role in the tech sector. Morgan posited, "Global companies continue to see the great opportunities available here in Round Rock and our region. From real estate to technology innovation, Sabey Data Centers will provide important digital infrastructure support well into the future." These sentiments, conveyed at the council's approval, signal Round Rock's conducive environment for tech giants and startups alike, making a notable impact on the local economy.
Economic development in Round Rock has proven itself fundamental in shaping the city's financial landscape. Spearheaded by the City's initiatives, it has attracted businesses, bolstered tax bases, and sustained one of the region's lowest property tax rates. According to the City of Round Rock's figures, current development agreements have pumped over $147 million in taxes, netting significant returns to the city, not factoring in the contributions from Dell Technologies. This concerted push for growth ensures the delivery of vital services while keeping residential tax burdens at bay.
