University of Michigan selects site for proposed data center

News Clip0:44CBS Detroit·Ypsilanti Township, Washtenaw County, MI·8/12/2026

The University of Michigan has selected a 144-acre site in Ypsilanti Township for a controversial $1.25 billion data center. The university states the facility will support scientific research and not impact the Huron River's water. However, the decision faces significant opposition from local leaders and Congresswoman Debbie Dingell.

announcementoppositionenvironmentalwatergovernment
Gov: University of Michigan, Ypsilanti Township, Congresswoman Debbie Dingell

The University of Michigan has officially chosen a 144-acre site along Textile Road near Bridge Road in Ypsilanti Township for a new data center. The university's $1.25 billion project, expected to be completed by 2028, will support scientific research rather than commercial computing and is stated to not impact tax dollars or draw from/discharge water into the Huron River.

However, the decision has drawn significant criticism. Congresswoman Debbie Dingell expressed deep disturbance, stating that the University of Michigan disregarded opposition from Ypsilanti Township residents and local leaders regarding the controversial facility.