Described herein are a method and apparatuses for providing DDR memory access. In one embodiment, an apparatus includes a data storage unit to store and synchronize a plurality of data line signals with a clock signal. The apparatus includes a selector unit that receives the plurality of data line signals and selects two data line signals. The apparatus also includes a double data rate (DDR) output unit that receives the two data line signals from the selector unit and generates a DDR data line signal having a time period substantially one half of a clock time period of the clock signal. The apparatus also includes an input/output (I/O) pad coupled to and locally positioned with respect to the DDR output unit. The data storage unit, the selector unit, and the DDR output unit in combination form an I/O buffer which is locally coupled to the I/O pad.