La Porte Approves Annexation, Rezoning For Second Microsoft Data Center
The La Porte Common Council unanimously approved the annexation and rezoning of over 1,000 acres for a second Microsoft data center campus. This decision paves the way for 11 new data center buildings, with Microsoft committing to cover infrastructure costs and implement water-minimizing cooling. The project faced some opposition regarding noise and environmental impacts, but was ultimately approved.
On Monday, May 18, the La Porte City Common Council unanimously approved a series of measures crucial for the development of a second Microsoft data center campus in the city. The approval included the annexation and rezoning of more than 1,000 acres in Pleasant Township for light industrial use, a move city officials lauded as one of the largest economic development projects in La Porte's history.
Project representatives confirmed the expansion would add 11 additional data center buildings to Microsoft's existing development area. Microsoft officials also committed to funding infrastructure improvements for water, sewer, and roadways, and stated that future cooling systems would utilize closed-loop technology to minimize water consumption.
The proposal garnered both support and criticism during public comment. Proponents, including labor leaders and educators, highlighted the anticipated tax revenue, construction jobs, and long-term benefits for local schools. Conversely, opponents voiced concerns about potential noise pollution, environmental impacts, and accountability.
Council members who supported the project emphasized Microsoft's commitment to extensive community outreach, environmental safeguards, and mitigation efforts such as noise studies, landscaping buffers, and setbacks from nearby residences. They characterized the project as economically transformative for La Porte and its school system. Timelines and costs for this new data center, located near the first campus, remain undisclosed, as Microsoft's initial $1 billion La Porte data center is still under construction.