Data center developer buys Star Tribune's North Loop Minneapolis facility

Legacy Investing, a data center company, has acquired the 13-acre former Star Tribune printing plant in Minneapolis's North Loop, with plans to transform it into an urban data center. The site, which printed its last headline in December, is described by Minneapolis Downtown Council President and CEO Adam Dunnck as an "exciting opportunity" and an important investment in the city's infrastructure.

The development comes amidst broader controversies surrounding data centers in many cities, including the Minneapolis area. Opponents typically raise concerns about pollution, noise, and excessive electricity and water consumption. However, Dunnck argues that urban data centers are typically smaller, quieter, and use significantly less water than their rural counterparts, citing existing urban data centers in downtown Minneapolis's Sleep Number building as proof of successful integration.

A significant hurdle for the project is a moratorium enacted by the Minneapolis City Council in May, which restricts new data centers over 350,000 square feet unless located within the downtown core. The acquired property, at 13 acres, exceeds 550,000 square feet, creating uncertainty about the project's future. Despite this, Dunnck sees potential for a mixed-use development, possibly including housing, and highlights the demand for related jobs like electricians and data center technicians.

KARE 11's Ian Russell reported that attempts to reach the Minnesota Star Tribune and Legacy Investing for comment were unsuccessful. The sale price of the property has not been disclosed, though property records indicate a market value of approximately $20 million.