Beale Infrastructure withdraws application for Gardner data center

Beale Infrastructure has withdrawn its application for a proposed 300-acre hyperscale data center in Gardner, Kansas. The company's decision, announced Wednesday, came after the City of Gardner indicated that no economic incentives would be granted for the project. Mayor Todd Winters thanked community members for their engagement, reaffirming the city's commitment to responsible economic development. The withdrawal follows significant opposition from local residents and elected officials. Nacole Boan, whose family has lived near the proposed site at West 191st Street and South Clare Road for four generations, rallied about 30 neighbors to fight the development. Residents like Phil Boan expressed concerns about the rural character of the area and potential future expansions. Nearly 200 people attended a Gardner City Council meeting to voice concerns regarding location, impact on students, and environmental issues. State Senator Doug Shane (R-Louisburg) also attended the meeting, urging the council to listen to their constituents. Beale Infrastructure stated they had been listening to feedback from both the community and city leaders and are now committed to exploring other investments in Kansas.