Ranchlands Near Wheatland Eyed For $26 Billion 'Transformational' Data Center
Site Layer 4 has proposed a $26 billion data center and power generation complex on 5,344 acres of ranchland near Wheatland, Wyoming, and filed for rezoning. Public hearings are scheduled for the rezoning application. Residents are expressing concerns about water usage, environmental impacts on local wildlife and scenery, and the general character of the rural area.
Site Layer 4 is proposing a $26 billion data center campus with co-located energy generation on 5,344 acres of ranchland northeast of Wheatland, Wyoming, in Platte County, owned by Lazy V Six Ranch. The company has filed an application to rezone the land from agricultural to industrial, with public hearings set for August 11 before the Platte County Planning and Zoning Commission and August 20 before the Platte County Commission.
Local residents, like George Gamblin and Kathryn Stevens, are expressing significant concerns about the project's potential impact on the unique Goshen Hole Rim area, which is home to diverse wildlife, natural springs, and cherished scenic views. They also highlight worries about water consumption, particularly given ongoing drought conditions and their reliance on domestic wells. Platte County Economic Development Executive Director Josephine Young emphasized the project's potential for “transformational” economic benefits, including 250-300 permanent jobs and a significant increase in county sales tax revenue, urging residents to focus on the specifics of the proposal rather than general data center criticisms. Platte County Commissioner Ian Jolovich noted his initial agnosticism while stressing water as a key issue.
Site Layer 4 states the project would use a closed-loop water system, minimizing consumption to an amount comparable to 25-30 residential homes, and has pledged environmental controls. However, residents remain skeptical, prioritizing the preservation of natural resources and their rural way of life.