Data centers are expanding across Massachusetts. Why does it matter?

Name: Data centers are expanding across Massachusetts. Why does it matter?
Uploaded: 2026-04-10T19:55:16.000Z
Duration: 1 min 2 s
Description: Everett, Massachusetts, is proposing an ordinance to restrict data center development in its Docklands Innovation District. The Planning Board unanimously endorsed the measure, which now moves to the City Council for approval. This proactive regulation aims to address growing concerns and backlash against the rapidly expanding data center industry in the state.

News Clip1:02Boston.com·Everett, Middlesex County, MA·4/10/2026

Everett, Massachusetts, is proposing an ordinance to restrict data center development in its Docklands Innovation District. The Planning Board unanimously endorsed the measure, which now moves to the City Council for approval. This proactive regulation aims to address growing concerns and backlash against the rapidly expanding data center industry in the state.

zoningoppositiongovernment

Gov: Everett Planning Board, Everett City Council

As backlash against data center development grows in Massachusetts, Everett is moving to get ahead of it.

The Planning Board voted unanimously April 6 to endorse an ordinance that would restrict data centers in Everett’s Docklands Innovation District (EDID), a 100-acre redevelopment site near the Mystic River. The proposal now heads to the City Council, which must approve it twice before it can take effect.

The move positions Everett among the first municipalities in the state to proactively regulate a rapidly expanding industry, and one of increasing concern.

🖊️: Annie Jonas
📹: Autumn Sloboda