U of I supercomputer provides $1.08 billion direct return to illinois’ economy May 17, 2017 4:00 pm by etwilson@illinois.eduCampus Life Share on Facebook Tweet Email Images Blue Waters has a projected $1.08 billion direct economic impact on Illinois' economy and will have created 5,772 full-time equivalent employment from October, 2007 to June, 2019. Share on Facebook Tweet Email