Montana joins federal fast-track permitting program as concerns grow over proposed Broadview data center
Montana has joined the federal FAST-41 permitting program, which is intended to coordinate and accelerate reviews of major infrastructure projects. Residents and opponents worry the program could speed approval of Quantica’s proposed Big Sky Digital data center near Broadview, which would require more than 1,700 megawatts of power.
Gov. Greg Gianforte announced that Montana has entered an agreement with the Federal Permitting Improvement Steering Council through the FAST-41 program. The initiative is designed to coordinate federal and state reviews, allow permitting steps to proceed in parallel and improve transparency without removing existing legal requirements or public input.
The announcement has raised concerns among opponents of Quantica’s proposed Big Sky Digital data center near Broadview in Yellowstone County. Yellowstone County Voices attorney Brian Miller and resident Cari Olson said the program could reduce public influence over land and water decisions, while U.S. Rep. Troy Downing said FAST-41 does not override state or local permitting authority. Montana Department of Environmental Quality spokesperson Madison McGeffers said the agency would continue following state processes and timelines.