Grayslake data center may pose future water treatment issues
Construction has begun on T5 Inc.'s 470-acre data center campus in Grayslake, which could eventually include up to 20 buildings. Residents and environmental groups have raised concerns about water and wastewater capacity, while a coalition has filed a civil lawsuit seeking an injunction. The Lake County Board also enacted an eight-month moratorium, with a possible four-month extension, on data center development in unincorporated areas to review impacts and consider regulations.
Foundation work is underway on T5 Inc.'s Grayslake data center campus in Lake County, a rezoned site expected to be developed over seven to 10 years. The project could include as many as 20 buildings and 6.75 million square feet of space, although current plans are smaller than earlier proposals. Grayslake officials say the village water system, supplied by Lake Michigan, has adequate capacity and estimate that a typical building would use 2,500 to 3,500 gallons per day.
Opponents have criticized the project's approval process and raised concerns about water consumption and wastewater treatment. A coalition has filed a civil lawsuit seeking an injunction, and the litigation remains ongoing. The North Shore Water Reclamation District said it currently has capacity but will review future connections and permits, while the Lake County Board adopted an eight-month moratorium, potentially extendable by four months, for data center projects in unincorporated parts of the county.