The first purpose-built, next-generation data centre in Montreal is now under construction, scheduled for occupancy by the end of 2015.

The Fonds immobilier de solidarité FTQ and Urbacon venture will complete renovations on a 43,000-square-foot lot, where an existing building will transform into 19,000 square feet of office space.

An adjacent 10-storey green, high-security building will add another 234,000 square feet to become part of the largest, most secure building of its kind in the city, and what Peter Russell, vice-president at Urbacon, calls “the evolution of the data centre in Montreal.”

“Many companies have their data hosted in buildings that have been converted into data centres, offering a less than optimal or modern environment and often located outside the city,” said Russell. “By building from the ground up, the 544 Project will provide a world-class facility that will meet all relevant criteria in terms of structural aspects, security, mechanical equipment and electrical systems for a leading edge data centre.

Valued at about $70 million, the facility will offer a high performance fibre optic system with multiple broadband fibre connections to diverse providers, reinforced floors, 16-foot ceilings, centralized switchgear and 24/7 security.