University of Alabama Builds High Performance Computing and Data Center

The University of Alabama will begin construction in early 2025 on a new High Performance Computing and Data Center (HPC) to serve academic needs, strategic partners, and the Office of Research and Economic Development. Designed by Davis Architects, the 40,000-gsf structure will house the fastest supercomputer in Alabama, a petascale system capable of performing quadrillions of calculations per second. These functionalities will make it the only system in Alabama to meet the high performance standards for the TOP500 list of supercomputers, and will place the University of Alabama on par with peer research institutions. Exponentially increasing the university’s computing capacity, the $100 million center will provide dedicated space for a cloud storage alternative to meet the needs of potential research partners.

The two-story development will house advanced computational equipment worth $25 million supported primarily by funding by the National Institute of Standards and Technology. In addition to offices and work areas, shell space will allow for efficient expansion over time, accommodating a planned secure suite, further computational capacity, and support infrastructure. As part of the HPC, a new 22,500-gsf electrical substation yard will be built near Alabama Power’s high voltage transmission lines to provide a reliable and cost-effective energy supply for existing use and projected growth.

Enabling collaboration with industry, government, and academic affiliates, the state-of-the-art facility will drive advances in fields such as water, materials, transportation, health, national security, and quantum computing. CivilCON is serving as the general contractor alongside J.T. Harrison Construction. Completion is expected in 2026.