Governor Shapiro highlights permitting reforms tied to Amazon's $20B tech investment

Governor Josh Shapiro and Pennsylvania Department of Environmental Protection Secretary Jessica Shirley visited the Keystone Trade Center to discuss the state's progress in speeding up permitting processes. They were joined by NorthPoint Development executives, elected officials, and labor leaders. The event focused on how recent changes are helping Pennsylvania attract large economic development projects and create new jobs.

The visit comes after Amazon Web Services (AWS) announced an initial $20 billion investment to build cloud computing and AI innovation campuses across Pennsylvania. This is the largest private sector investment in the state's history. One of these campuses will be located at the redeveloped Keystone Trade Center in Falls Township. The AWS project is expected to bring thousands of high-paying jobs in technology, construction, and supply fields. It also positions Pennsylvania as a leader in artificial intelligence and advanced technology.

To prepare for this growth, the state is providing $10 million to expand workforce training, vocational-technical programs, and career and technical education statewide. These efforts aim to ensure that workers have skills needed for future job opportunities. In July 2025, Code for America ranked Pennsylvania among the top three states for AI readiness.

Governor Shapiro stated, "My Administration is proving that government can work at the speed of business - and that when we work together, we can bring game-changing projects like this Amazon data center campus to Pennsylvania," said Governor Shapiro. "This project is part of the largest private sector investment in Pennsylvania history - an initial $20 billion commitment from Amazon to build state-of-the-art data center campuses across the Commonwealth, including right here in Bucks County. We're not just talking about economic development, we're delivering it: creating thousands of good-paying jobs, generating new revenue for our local communities, and making it easier for companies to build and grow in Pennsylvania. From modernizing our permitting processes to investing in workforce development, we're creating real opportunity for Pennsylvania workers and families - and ensuring the future of AI and innovation runs right through the Commonwealth."

Speakers at the event included Jeremy Michael from NorthPoint Development; Governor Josh Shapiro; Secretary Jessica Shirley; Jim Snell from Steamfitters Local 420; Senator Steven Santarsiero; and Representative Jim Prokopiak.