Raeden Proposes Data Center in Colorado Springs Amid Resident Concerns

Raeden, a California-based company, is proposing to build an artificial intelligence data center within a former computer chip manufacturing facility located near the intersection of Garden of the Gods Road and Centennial Boulevard in Colorado Springs. This proposal has sparked worry and anger among residents of a nearby neighborhood. Retired Air Force Lieutenant Colonel Mitch White, a long-time Colorado Springs resident living near the proposed site, voiced strong opposition, stating the data center's impact would be "more than significant" and expressing concern that it would consume "precious resources." Residents are particularly anxious about potential noise pollution, as well as the facility's projected high water and power usage. Jason Green, president and co-founder of Raeden, addressed some of these concerns, particularly regarding noise, stating that the building's thick concrete walls and internal structure would prevent noise from escaping. The video also contextualizes the proposal by noting that Colorado Springs already hosts several data centers, including T5 at Colorado and a Walmart facility. Former city officials, such as John Suthers, view data centers as crucial infrastructure for the city to maintain its competitiveness as a military and business hub.