Martindale Brightwood data center moves ahead despite resident outcry

The Metropolitan Development Commission has approved a contentious $500-million data center project in the Martindale Brightwood neighborhood of Indianapolis. The nearly 14-acre development, proposed by an unnamed out-of-state developer, is slated for a site near 25th Street and Sherman Drive, close to residential areas, local businesses, a public library, and one of the community's few grocery stores. Residents have voiced strong opposition for the past six months, citing concerns over potential environmental pollution, anticipated increases in utility costs, and the granting of tax breaks for a project that is expected to create few long-term jobs. Despite these objections, the commission voted 6-2 to approve the project at its April 1 meeting. Board members engaged in a two-hour hearing but did not offer explanations for their votes.