Weeks After Unveiling 3,200-Acre Data Center Expansion, Microsoft Adds Another 420
Microsoft is significantly expanding its data center footprint in Cheyenne, Wyoming, by adding another 420 acres to a previously announced 3,200-acre project. This expansion comes amidst a community debate about water usage, industrialization, and a potential moratorium on data center development. Microsoft is responding with increased transparency efforts and community engagement.
Microsoft is expanding its data center operations in Cheyenne, Wyoming, announcing an additional 420 acres for development just weeks after revealing a 3,200-acre expansion. This new acquisition involves two parcels: a 385-acre site located near existing industrial zones and Laramie County Community College, and a smaller 35-acre parcel adjacent to the North Range Business Park, an area where Microsoft already operates data centers with established utility infrastructure.
The significant growth has sparked a community-wide discussion in Cheyenne regarding water consumption, industrialization, and the overall scale of data center development the city should accommodate, including debate over a potential moratorium. Cheyenne Mayor Patrick Collins declined to comment on the expansion, while Cheyenne LEADS Executive Director Betsey Hale highlighted the 385-acre parcel's suitability for industrial use due to its surroundings.
Microsoft is attempting to address community concerns through a "Community First Infrastructure" initiative, emphasizing responsible growth, job creation, and tax contributions. They held a voluntary meeting with landowners about the new 385-acre project and are offering an open-house forum to discuss impacts like water and energy use. The company has also pledged to end non-disclosure agreements with local governments to foster greater transparency.
City Councilman Larry Wolfe noted the increased visibility of the new construction sites compared to older, less prominent data center locations. Efforts are underway by Cheyenne LEADS and the city to improve public access to information about development projects, with Hale recommending using city council agendas to navigate the "clunky" online portal for project details.