Washington Twp. officials continue to weigh future data centers

Washington Township officials are actively working to amend local ordinances concerning data center development after Prologis submitted a conditional rezoning application for a 312-acre technical campus and data center in November 2025. The application seeks to rezone the property, located on 32 Mile Road, to an Industrial – Research – Technology zoning district, which would then require a special land use permit for a data center. During an April 9 planning commission meeting, discussions focused heavily on potential impacts. Township engineer Mike Kozak highlighted complex issues surrounding water capacity and wastewater, noting that such large developments would necessitate higher water limits and a re-evaluation of the township's water system capabilities. Noise concerns were also prominent, with noise expert Darren Brown recommending thorough sound studies and penalties for tonal or impulsive noise, suggesting that a multi-billion dollar data center developer could easily fund a $50,000 noise study. Residents voiced significant opposition, with Corrine Graper advocating for substantial fines and monitoring plans to ensure developers adhere to new ordinances. Romeo High School student Izzy Greco expressed worries about the local ecosystem, as well as sound, light, and water pollution, emphasizing the unknown long-term effects of data centers. The commission voted to authorize the township planner and attorney to continue working with consultants to progress the proposed ordinance amendment, leading to a public hearing and a final decision by the board of trustees.