Eastside data center campus recommended for approval
DC Blox's proposed $2 billion data center campus in Indianapolis received a recommendation for approval from the Metropolitan Development Commission hearing examiner, despite significant resident opposition. Community members raised concerns about environmental impacts, utility costs, and proximity to homes, urging a denial until the city finalizes data center regulations and a recently proposed moratorium on development. The proposal now advances to the full commission for a final vote.
A proposed $2 billion data center campus by Georgia-based developer DC Blox in Indianapolis, near Irvington, has been recommended for approval by Metropolitan Development Commission (MDC) hearing examiner Judy Weerts Hall, despite strong community opposition. The project, planned for a brownfield site at the Thunderbird Commerce Center, would consist of three buildings, consuming up to 78 megawatts of electricity and utilizing 56 backup generators.
Residents expressed significant concerns at a June 11 MDC hearing, citing proximity to homes and the Pennsy Trail, potential environmental and health impacts, and rising utility costs. Eastsider Lisa Kirkwood and Irvington resident Dawn Briggs advocated for greater public input and urged denial of the project until the city finalizes data center regulations. Briggs specifically referenced a resolution unanimously approved last month by the Indianapolis City-County Council, calling for a moratorium on data center development. DC Blox is seeking a use variance, meaning the MDC will have final approval, bypassing a City-County Council vote.
In response to concerns, DC Blox has committed to funding energy infrastructure improvements, utilizing local labor unions, donating to Pennsy Trail maintenance, and adhering to environmental regulations. However, residents emphasized that many questions remain unanswered. Following the hearing examiner's recommendation, the proposal will now proceed to the full Metropolitan Development Commission for a vote.