1547 and Harrison Street Acquire DRFortress, Hawaii’s Leading Carrier-Neutral Data Center
Strategic Investment Expands Digital Infrastructure Platform Across the Pacific
HONOLULU, HI – April 03, 2025 – fifteenfortyseven Critical Systems Realty (1547), a leading owner and operator of data centers, and Harrison Street, a leading investment management firm exclusively focused on alternative real assets with approximately $55 billion in assets under management, announced the acquisition of DRFortress, Hawaii’s largest carrier-neutral data center, from GI Partners.
GI Partners initially acquired a majority interest in DRFortress in January 2020 in partnership with co-founders Fred Rodi and Rosa White. Under GI’s ownership, DRFortress has nearly doubled its colocation capacity, strengthening its leadership in Hawaii’s digital infrastructure landscape. The new partnership between 1547 and Harrison Street aims to build on that legacy, supporting DRFortress’ continued growth.
“Hawaii serves as a strategic gateway for connectivity in the Pacific, and DRFortress has established itself as a vital interconnection hub for businesses and global networks alike,” said J. Todd Raymond, CEO & Managing Director of 1547. “By bringing DRFortress into our connectivity-focused platform, we’re expanding customer access to cloud providers, submarine cable systems, and international markets—while maintaining its carrier-neutral foundation and continuing to scale to meet growing demand.”
The existing DRFortress leadership team will remain in place following the acquisition, promoting the continuity of the business, the team, and trusted service for customers and operating partners. Founders Fred Rodi and Rosa White will continue to lead day-to-day operations, reinforcing the company’s longstanding commitment to Hawaii’s business and technology community while maintaining its focus on delivering high-quality data center services.
“Investing in essential digital infrastructure that meets the growing demand for secure, high-capacity interconnection is core to our strategy,” said Michael Borchetta, Managing Director at Harrison Street. “DRFortress plays a significant role in supporting businesses across Hawaii and the broader APAC region, and we look forward to working alongside 1547 to expand its services.”
“Over the past five years, we’ve been proud to support DRFortress’ growth as Hawaii’s leading interconnection hub,” said Mark Prybutok, Managing Director and Head of Data Infrastructure at GI Partners. “Fred, Rosa, and the entire DRFortress team have built an exceptional platform, and we are confident that 1547 and Harrison Street are the right development partners to lead its continued success.”
“This next chapter with 1547 and Harrison Street represents a great opportunity for DRFortress and our customers,” said Rosa White, Co-President, CFO, and co-founder of DRFortress. “With added scale, investment, and expertise, we’ll be able to expand our services and reach while staying true to our mission of delivering world-class infrastructure solutions to businesses throughout Hawaii.” Bank Street Group LLC served as exclusive financial advisor and Paul, Weiss, Rifkind, Wharton & Garrison LLP served as legal advisor to GI Partners and DRFortress. DLA Piper served as legal advisor to 1547 Critical Systems and Harrison Street.