Martindale Brightwood data center overwhelmingly passes

The Metropolitan Development Commission (MDC) in Indianapolis, Indiana, approved the rezoning application for a proposed $500 million data center by Los-Angeles-based startup Metrobloks. The decision, made on April 1, allows the construction of two large server buildings on a 14-acre site in Martindale Brightwood, a historically Black neighborhood. The project, supported by district councilor Ron Gibson and Indy Economic Development Inc. (IEDI), was met with strong opposition from nearly 100 residents and community groups, including the Black Church Coalition. Opponents, like Rev. Fitzhugh Lyons Jr., argued that the data center does not align with the neighborhood's quality of life plan, which prioritizes sustainable development, affordable housing, and real economic development, and expressed concerns about job creation and community benefits. Tyler Ochs, attorney for Metrobloks, countered that the small-scale urban data center would revitalize a long-vacant site, generate significant property taxes (estimated $11 million annually before abatements), and use a closed-loop water system requiring only about 5,000 gallons per year. Metrobloks CEO Ernest Popescu also pledged up to $20 million for neighborhood efforts, though details were sparse. The MDC's 6-2 vote came amidst ongoing discussions at both city and state levels regarding appropriate zoning for data centers, which currently lack clear guidelines in city code. Rep. Greg Porter, D-Indianapolis, who represents Martindale Brightwood, opposed the project and noted that the Indiana General Assembly is still trying to establish clearer roadmaps for data center placement. Several City-County councilors had previously called for Metrobloks to pause its request, citing efforts to adjust zoning laws. The City-County Council is expected to rubber-stamp the rezoning without a full vote, as the district councilor supports the project. This contrasts with a prior Google project in Franklin Township that failed after the company withdrew plans due to opposition.