Rochester Area Chamber of Commerce voices support for controversial Pine Island data center
The Rochester Area Chamber of Commerce is formally supporting Google’s proposed Project Skyway data center near Pine Island, citing construction jobs, permanent employment and regional economic benefits. The project faces strong opposition from residents and environmentalists and is currently paused while a judge considers whether additional environmental review is required.
The Rochester Area Chamber of Commerce has endorsed Google’s proposed Project Skyway data center in Pine Island, Minnesota. Chamber President Ryan Parsons said the project could create about 700 construction jobs, more than 100 permanent positions and substantial tax revenue, while Google has pledged $24 million to Pine Island schools over 20 years if the project is approved.
The proposal has drawn opposition from Pine Island residents, environmentalists and local political candidates, who have criticized the secrecy surrounding its development and local officials’ nondisclosure agreements. Google and developer Ryan Companies have held public events to address concerns, but the project remains on pause as a judge considers whether it requires additional environmental review.