Minneapolis North Loop residents express concerns over potential data center
A Virginia-based developer, Legacy Investing, is under contract to purchase the old Star Tribune printing plant in Minneapolis's North Loop for a data center. Residents are raising concerns about the project's water usage and overall impact on the neighborhood. The city is evaluating the proposal in the context of an existing data center moratorium and its tax base recovery goals.
A data center debate has emerged in downtown Minneapolis, focusing on a proposal from Virginia-based developer Legacy Investing. The company has agreed to purchase the 13-acre old Star Tribune printing plant in the North Loop for a new data center.
During a recent meeting, North Loop residents voiced numerous concerns directly to the developers, particularly regarding potential environmental issues and water usage, given the site's proximity to the Mississippi River. Residents also expressed a desire for more concrete plans for adjacent parcels and questioned the identity of the future client for the data center. Developers stated the proposed data center would be relatively small, with water usage comparable to a few homes, and emphasized their thoughtful approach to development.
On the other hand, the Minneapolis Downtown Council highlighted the potential economic benefits, estimating hundreds of millions in additional valuation and tens of millions in property tax revenue. A spokesperson for the Mayor of Minneapolis acknowledged openness to a data center as one use for the Star Tribune site but stressed the need for a broader vision with multiple uses. The City of Minneapolis recently enacted a data center moratorium, which will influence the project's approval process.
The North Loop Neighborhood Association did not take action at the meeting. The sale of the property is anticipated to close later this year, contingent on city approval.