Will KC approve 20-story downtown data center? Here’s what the mayor and residents say
The Kansas City Plan Commission recommended denying plans for a 20-story downtown data center, citing a lack of alignment with city goals and widespread resident opposition. Mayor Quinton Lucas has also publicly stated his unlikelihood to support the project, making City Council approval highly improbable. Residents raised concerns over historic preservation, environmental impacts, and the building's fit within the neighborhood.
The Kansas City Plan Commission has recommended the denial of a controversial 20-story data center proposed for downtown Kansas City, a decision strongly supported by Mayor Quinton Lucas. The commission's vote on Wednesday followed extensive public opposition and a determination that the project did not align with the city's long-term vision for the area, particularly regarding population growth and neighborhood character. Developers, led by Miami-based Revitalization Unlimited, had sought a delay for an impact study, but this request was denied.
Revitalization Unlimited proposed constructing a tower at 934 Central St., featuring retail at ground level and data center infrastructure above, replacing the historic Western Newspaper Union Building. The developers argued the design would fit the neighborhood, enhance the pedestrian experience, and utilize on-site natural gas fuel cells with a closed-loop cooling system, making it sustainable and independent of the power grid. They also highlighted potential tax revenue and the building's adaptability for future uses.
However, the project faced fierce opposition from residents and city officials. Concerns raised included the demolition of a historic building, increased noise and heat from data center operations, reliance on fossil fuels, and the visual impact of a 20-story structure in a neighborhood primarily composed of six-story buildings. Planning Commissioner Coby Crowl noted that 54 residents spoke against the project, echoing broader anti-data center sentiment. Mayor Lucas stated that a reversal of the commission's denial recommendation by the City Council is "highly unlikely" and would not receive his support.
Commissioner Tyler Enders, while acknowledging some intriguing aspects, concluded the project was not "the right project at the right time at the right place," particularly due to the proposed demolition of the historic building rather than utilizing an empty lot. The unanimous commission decision to deny was based on the project's non-alignment with city policies, indicating a significant hurdle for Revitalization Unlimited's plans.