Township vote paves way for Michigan’s second hyperscale data center
The Van Buren Township Planning Commission approved Google’s final site plan for a proposed 1-gigawatt hyperscale data center near Detroit Metro Airport, clearing the project’s last major local permitting hurdle. The project has secured power and environmental approvals but faces continued resident opposition over construction impacts, leading to a recall effort targeting the township board.
The Van Buren Township Planning Commission voted 5-1 to approve the final site plan for Google’s proposed data center near Detroit Metro Airport. The Project Cannoli development would include six buildings, a substation and equipment yards across 150 acres, with construction led by Walbridge and development support from Pannatoni Data Centers. Google expects the facility to begin drawing power in late 2027 and eventually reach 1 gigawatt of demand.
Google has secured electricity through a 20-year contract with DTE Energy approved by the Michigan Public Service Commission and has received wetland permits from state environmental regulators. The facility could use up to 3.6 million gallons of water daily from the Great Lakes Water Authority. While township officials cited Google’s commitments on noise controls, infrastructure funding and local taxes, nearby residents complained about dust, noise and vibrations from early construction. Opposition has prompted a recall effort against the township board as Michigan lawmakers consider broader limits on data center development.