Daniel Duke | May 2026

The Opportunity
Transform abandoned quarries and sand pits across Texas into hidden, self-sustaining innovation hubs that solve critical infrastructure challenges while creating major economic and community value.

The Concept
Build sealed AI data centers inside existing quarry excavations using closed-loop geothermal cooling. Pair them with on-site or nearby Small Modular Reactors (SMRs) for clean, reliable power. Fully restore and landscape the surface into a flexible mixed-use Innovation Park.

Addressing the Main Community Concerns

• Visibility: Data center fully hidden underground with restored surface development above
• Noise: Dramatically reduced through underground placement and natural barriers
• Water Usage: Near-zero freshwater consumption via closed-loop geothermal cooling
• Electricity/Grid Strain: Net power exporter to ERCOT instead of a major consumer

Key Benefits

• Reclaims brownfields and restores scarred industrial land
• Creates thousands of high-wage jobs in tech, medical, and research
• Generates significant tax revenue and land value uplift
• Delivers a strong sustainability profile at a time of growing data center opposition

I recently met with the Governor’s Office concerning this project and was happy to see it caught their attention.

I am now releasing the full concept publicly so it can be used and developed by those in a position to move it forward for the benefit of Texas and the United States.

Contact
Daniel Duke
Liberty Hill, Texas
Originator – Hidden Quarry Data Center/ Innovation Parks concept

Click links below to view the Executive Summary and Presentation –

Hidden Quarry Data Center / Innovation Park Executive Summary
Hidden Quarry Data Center / Innovation Park Presentation