Article Summary –
In 2017, Foxconn promised to build a $10 billion TV screen manufacturing plant in Mount Pleasant, Wisconsin, pledging 13,000 jobs, but instead left only a few buildings and 1,000 workers on the 1,200-acre property. The community has gained new hope with Microsoft’s plan to invest $3.3 billion in a datacenter on the same land, with a goal of providing 2,000 union construction jobs through 2026 and turning southeast Wisconsin into a technological hub. Microsoft’s investment also includes partnerships with local institutions for skill development and community projects, such as an AI Co-Innovation Lab at the University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee and a Datacenter Academy at Gateway Technical College, as well as a collaboration with the Root-Pike Watershed Initiative to restore the Lamparek Creek.
Foxconn’s Unfulfilled Promises and Microsoft’s New Investment in Racine County
In 2017, Taiwanese tech manufacturer Foxconn planned to build a $10 billion TV screen plant in Mount Pleasant, promising to create 13,000 jobs on a new campus. Yet, after seven years, this promise remains unfulfilled, with only a few buildings and approximately 1,000 workers on the site.
However, a new opportunity arises with Microsoft’s recent announcement to invest $3.3 billion in a datacenter on the land initially purposed for Foxconn. Microsoft promises to stimulate the southeast Wisconsin economy by creating 2,000 union construction jobs by 2026.
Microsoft’s Partnership with the Community
Microsoft’s investment also includes a partnership with Green Bay Packers to establish an AI Co-Innovation Lab at the University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee. This initiative aims to help local businesses and manufacturers connect with Microsoft’s AI experts and developers. This facility is one of only seven of its kind globally and has the potential to provide over 100,000 Wisconsin residents with AI skills.
In addition, Microsoft plans to open a Datacenter Academy at Gateway Technical College and has partnered with United Way of Racine County to create a technology fund for under-resourced communities.
Microsoft’s Commitment to Environmental Stewardship
Microsoft is also committed to restoring the local environment, specifically the Lamparek Creek. They have teamed up with the Root-Pike Watershed Initiative for this project, which aims to improve water quality and reintroduce brook trout to the creek.
Overall Impact on the Community
While past disappointments with Foxconn have led to skepticism, Racine County residents remain hopeful that Microsoft will stimulate economic growth and job creation in the area. The community is also hopeful that Microsoft’s investment will have positive impacts on the local economy, environment, and lifestyle.
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