Henry County has long been a strong supporter of national security. As the U.S. competes with China in artificial intelligence, the Henry County Technology Park can contribute to American leadership. The tech park aligns with President Trump’s July 23, 2025, Executive Order, which calls for “bold, large-scale industrial plans…essential to national security, economic prosperity, and scientific leadership.”
Henry County also has a proud history of supporting opportunity, welcoming thousands of workers to support the manufacturing businesses that helped build our communities. Welcoming the tech park provides an opportunity in the fast-growing information economy.
What kind of opportunity? These opportunities include construction jobs during development and long-term careers in technology sectors. More importantly, it will generate a substantial tax base to secure our rural lifestyle by supporting our schools, public safety, and creating education/workforce partnerships.
The tech park complements the existing industrial park south of New Castle. The zoning request is for data center use, industrial and advanced manufacturing, electrical power, and electric infrastructure, all sectors that attract business investment and quality employment.
Hope not fear. New Albany, Ohio, offers a relevant case study. Before its first data center was established in 2010, New Albany was already a prosperous community. Now, with the technology sector firmly established, it remains prosperous and continues to grow. Technology development and community well-being can coexist.
The developers have committed to important safeguards: no drilling of water wells, and they will fund their own energy infrastructure. This is community-first development.
As author Ed Conway writes, “technology is economic fuel.” Let’s tap into this fuel.
Corey L. Murphy serves as President of the New Castle Henry County Economic Development Corporation.