Cox Ranch data center developers outline project, commitments at Cheyenne City Council work session
Developers from ViaWest Group and Skybox Datacenters presented their proposed Cox Ranch data center project to the Cheyenne City Council, outlining plans for the 1,200-acre site. The project involves two to three data center buildings using closed-loop cooling and is still pending necessary city approvals, with construction anticipated to take five to seven years after groundbreaking.
Developers from ViaWest Group and Skybox Datacenters provided an update on their proposed data center project on the 1,200-acre Cox Ranch property during a Cheyenne City Council work session. The annexation of the property, a prerequisite for the project, was previously postponed until September 14. This work session was an educational presentation for the council, with no public comment taken.
Tom Glissmeyer of ViaWest Group stated the companies have held multiple public open houses and plan to continue community engagement. The conceptual plan includes two to three data center buildings and is at least a year away from groundbreaking, with construction expected to span five to seven years. The project anticipates creating 1,000-1,500 temporary construction jobs and 300-500 permanent operational jobs.
Water consumption was a key discussion point, with Jack O'Neill from Skybox Datacenters detailing a closed-loop cooling system, limiting annual water use to 600,000 gallons or less per facility, primarily for fire suppression. Developers committed to fully funding the extension of water, sewer, and electrical infrastructure without passing costs to ratepayers, confirmed by Black Hills Energy.
Councilwoman Michelle Aldrich raised concerns about the project's proximity to the Rolling Hills residential area. O'Neill assured that proposed buildings would be set back significantly and utilize natural topography to minimize visual, noise, and lighting impacts. An agreement was also finalized with the Cox family regarding a mausoleum on the property, ensuring its transfer to a family foundation with retained access.
Councilman Larry Wolfe introduced a proposed community benefits agreement, sparking disagreement among council members. However, Cindy DeLancey, an attorney for the developers, presented their own "Commitment to the Cheyenne Community" document, outlining commitments on jobs, traffic, environmental considerations, water use, cooling, lighting, sound, setbacks, and landscaping. The project still requires further city approvals, utility coordination, and engineering.