Inside SubTropolis: LightEdge Opens Data Center in Underground Complex

LightEdge Solutions has turned on the juice at the SubTropolis Technology Center, a new data center campus housed completely within SubTropolis, the 5-million-square foot underground business complex in Kansas City operated by Hunt Midwest.

LightEdge Solutions, a cloud computing and colocation company, have invested $58 million in the 60,000 square foot fist phase of the technology center, which is expected to create 21 jobs.

"The opening of LightEdge’s new data center helps bolster Missouri’s reputation as a technology hub, and is another win for Kansas City,” said Missouri Gov. Jay Nixon. "An experienced talent pool and low-cost business environment makes the Show-Me State the best destination for growing high-tech companies and creating in-demand jobs."

The SubTropolis facility is the latest example of the interest in underground data bunkers, a niche within the larger data center industry. Advocates for these data bunkers says they offer high security and advantages in cost and energy efficiency, particularly with cooling.

SubTropolis is the world’s largest underground business complex, with more than 5 million square feet leased to over 50 international, national, regional and local companies that employ more than 1,600 people.

“This is the perfect strategic alliance that allows both companies to leverage their core expertise to deliver a world-class data center operation,” said Ora Reynolds, president of Hunt Midwest Real Estate Development.

Here's a look inside the new underground facility:

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Inside of the LightEdge Solutions data center during the commissioning phase where racks and other systems are already in place. The limestone-fortified underground location is housed within the SubTropolis Technology Center, offering protection from natural disasters. (Photo: LightEdge)

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Another view of the new data hall within the LightEdge facility. (Photo: LightEdge)

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The Network Operations Center (NOC) inside of LightEdge Solutions’ data center within the SubTropolis Technology Center underground mission critical campus. (Photo: LightEdge)

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The SubTropolis Technology Center's equipment yard sits on the exterior surface of the mission critical campus. LightEdge Solutions’ chillers and generators are shown in this aerial view. (Photo: LightEdge)