Proposed Kenosha Data Center Remains on the Table
A proposed Microsoft data center in Kenosha, Wisconsin, received a recommendation for approval from the Plan Commission. The project, located on a site transferred from the Town of Paris to the city, awaits site plans from Microsoft and a development agreement approval from the city council. Local opposition has emerged, raising environmental concerns and organizing an event against data centers.
Construction for a proposed Microsoft data center in Kenosha, Wisconsin, could commence as early as next year. In late 2024, the Kenosha Plan Commission recommended approval for the data center, slated for a 243-acre site west of I-94 and along STH 142. The property, initially located within the Town of Paris boundaries, has since been transferred to the City of Kenosha. The Plan Commission's approval was granted without knowledge of Microsoft's involvement.
According to City Development Director Tim Casey, the city is currently awaiting Microsoft's submission of site plans. The Kenosha City Council will be responsible for approving a development agreement covering necessary infrastructure. Josh Birong, business manager for Plumbers and Steamfitters Local 118, noted that the proposed Kenosha facility is designed differently and is smaller than Microsoft's existing data center in Mt. Pleasant. A Microsoft spokesperson declined to comment on the project's status.
The project has sparked local opposition, with a group forming to protest the development. Opponents have voiced environmental concerns. Birong, however, disputes claims of environmental impact. The opposition group is co-sponsoring an event in Kenosha featuring Wisconsin comedian Charlie Berens, who is known for speaking out against data centers, to raise awareness and support against the project.