West Memphis on the Rise: Mayor McClendon Highlights Google’s Historic Investment in WREG Interview

West Memphis is stepping into an exciting new chapter. The city has long been known for its agriculture and transportation roots, but now it’s transforming into a hub for technology and innovation. In a recent WREG interview with Alex Colman, Mayor Marco McClendon shared his vision for West Memphis and how the city has prepared itself to attract world-class investments—most notably, Google’s historic new data center.

This isn’t just another business announcement. It’s a signal that West Memphis is ready to compete on a national stage. Mayor McClendon emphasized that the city’s success is rooted in teamwork, strategic planning, and community involvement. With Google committing $4 billion to the state and selecting West Memphis as the centerpiece of this investment, the city’s trajectory is changing rapidly.

A Milestone Moment for West Memphis

Google’s data center will be the largest private investment in Arkansas history, covering 1,300 acres. Ruth Porat, Google’s CFO, confirmed that this project will create thousands of construction jobs and hundreds of permanent positions. For Mayor McClendon, the announcement is proof that the city’s leadership and the dedication of its people have positioned West Memphis as a competitive and forward-looking city.

Key Insights from Mayor McClendon’s Interview

During the interview, Mayor McClendon highlighted how West Memphis’ strategic location, workforce readiness, and strong community partnerships made it the perfect place for Google’s first Arkansas project. He also stressed that the city’s residents are central to its success. Their hard work, dedication, and collaboration created the foundation for this historic investment.

The Google Data Center Project

Google’s $4 billion investment will have a lasting economic impact on West Memphis. Thousands of construction jobs will support the local economy immediately, while hundreds of permanent roles will open up new career pathways for residents. Beyond jobs, the city will benefit from increased revenue to fund critical priorities such as public safety, workforce development, and education programs.

One standout feature of Google’s investment is the $25 million Energy Impact Fund, designed to help low-income families manage utility costs and keep money in their pockets. This initiative shows that Google is committed to being a partner for the entire community—not just a business in the city.

Mayor McClendon’s Vision for a Modern West Memphis

Mayor McClendon sees this moment as part of a broader “winning streak” for West Memphis. He highlighted that the city is shifting from its traditional industries toward a high-tech future, emphasizing that this progress belongs to the residents. Their efforts have positioned West Memphis as a city that can attract major investments and provide meaningful opportunities for its people.

Governor Sarah Huckabee Sanders joined the announcement, praising the city’s leadership and calling West Memphis the ideal location for such a transformative project. This statewide support reinforces the city’s trajectory as a technology hub and a model for how communities can adapt and thrive in a digital economy.

Conclusion

West Memphis is no longer just a city in the Delta; it’s a city on the rise. Mayor McClendon’s WREG interview made it clear that this transformation is the result of years of preparation, collaboration, and community engagement. Google’s record-setting investment is just the beginning, signaling a new era of economic opportunity, high-quality jobs, and innovation. For residents, it’s a moment to celebrate and a reason to look forward to the future—one that West Memphis is ready to lead.