Minneapolis data center plan scrapped at former Star Tribune site
A data center plan by Legacy Investing for the former Star Tribune printing plant in Minneapolis has been scrapped, primarily due to the city's ongoing moratorium on such projects. The decision follows community opposition regarding noise, water, and electricity usage. While some officials express concern about the economic impact of the moratorium, residents welcome the decision.
Legacy Investing has withdrawn its plans to develop a 20-megawatt data center at the former Star Tribune printing plant in Minneapolis' North Loop neighborhood. The decision comes amidst a city-wide moratorium on data centers imposed by the Minneapolis City Council, which is set to run until November 21st.
The proposed project faced significant community opposition, particularly from the North Loop Neighborhood Association. Residents expressed concerns about potential noise, water consumption, and increased electricity rates. While some council members and Adam Dudnik of the Minneapolis Downtown Council argue that the moratorium sends a negative message to businesses and could hinder property tax revenue benefits for the city, others, like resident Nathan Smith, believe the environmental costs outweigh potential tax benefits.
The former printing plant, an imposing 600,000 square-foot structure, has been empty since December. Experts noted the building's suitability for a data center due to its ample electricity, space, and loading docks. Separately, the report also mentioned opposition to a proposed data center in Hermantown, Minnesota, where residents are raising funds for legal fees to block a project due to environmental and location concerns.