Data center proposed for former Star Tribune site sparks debate in Minneapolis
A data center proposed by Legacy Investing for the former Star Tribune site in Minneapolis's North Loop is generating controversy. Residents and a council member are concerned about its potential impact on noise, electricity, and water usage, especially as the city has an existing moratorium on large data centers. The project is seen by some as a solution to downtown vacancies but by others as a risky use of resources.
A new data center proposal for the former Star Tribune printing facility in Minneapolis's North Loop has ignited a debate over downtown's future and resource allocation. Virginia-based developer Legacy Investing plans to move into the 500,000 square-foot building, which has been vacant since the newspaper ceased printing there last year. This development is part of a broader data center boom fueled by the surge in artificial intelligence.
While the Minneapolis Downtown Council CEO views the project as a crucial investment to combat the city's 30% downtown vacancy rate, some neighbors and City Council member Areen Choudry express skepticism. Concerns primarily revolve around potential increases in noise, electricity, and water consumption. The proposal is particularly contentious as Minneapolis currently has an enacted moratorium on data centers larger than 350,000 square feet, though it's noted that some of the proposed 500,000 square feet might be allocated for retail or housing to achieve a mixed-use development.
Council member Choudry, who supported the existing moratorium, emphasized the need for clearer regulations, including mandatory disclosures, designated zones where data centers are prohibited, size limitations, and environmental impact assessments. The Minneapolis Downtown Council CEO indicated a desire for more data centers in downtown, potentially smaller ones integrated into existing buildings, while acknowledging that data centers do not typically create many long-term jobs and emphasizing the need for concurrent investments in residential and retail sectors. Developer Legacy Investing did not provide immediate comment when reached by FOX 9.