Forest Grove City Council approves 120-day data center moratorium
The Forest Grove City Council unanimously approved a 120-day moratorium on new data center applications and major expansions while the city evaluates potential development restrictions. The moratorium does not affect Crane Data Centers’ already-approved project, though future phases requiring new land-use approval could be subject to it.
The Forest Grove City Council approved an immediate 120-day moratorium on new data center applications and approvals, including expansions of at least 20% to existing facilities. City staff will use the pause to study economic development, housing capacity, utility infrastructure, electricity demand, pollution, waste heat and wastewater concerns, and may recommend changes to city code before the moratorium expires in February.
The moratorium exempts Crane Data Centers’ approved 35-acre development at 3975 Heather St. The project includes two buildings totaling about 543,000 square feet and could require approximately 100 megawatts of electricity. Although nearby residents previously opposed the project over noise, height, proximity to homes and environmental impacts, construction began in July 2025 and the approved work can proceed; additional phases requiring new land-use approval may not be exempt.
Forest Grove’s action follows a similar moratorium in Hillsboro, where officials are considering permanent restrictions and public-hearing requirements for new data centers.