SVP Mackey addresses data center concerns in town hall meeting

Oakland University is exploring plans for a new enterprise data center, clarified as distinct from an AI institute, following a town hall meeting on March 26. Senior Vice President for Finance and Administration Stephen W. Mackey addressed faculty, students, and community members, explaining the project's scope and the necessity of upgrading the university's outdated data infrastructure. The proposed facility would be developed under a public-private partnership (P3) with Fairmount Properties, an Ohio-based real estate firm, which would bear construction costs. Mackey stated the university would have final approval over tenant companies, prioritizing those offering research partnerships, internships, and employment opportunities for students. The project is currently in an initial feasibility phase until May, involving certifications from DTE Energy and an Internet service provider, and assessing financial viability. If deemed feasible, it will proceed to the OU Board of Trustees in June, followed by a due diligence phase and environmental studies, with final construction estimated to be at least three years away. Town hall attendees raised concerns regarding the data center's environmental impact, particularly freshwater consumption in the Great Lakes region and potential strain on campus utilities. Mackey responded by emphasizing Michigan's state statutes on water sourcing from local municipalities, the commitment to efficient cooling systems, and the potential for the new facility to alleviate pressure on existing campus infrastructure by using waste heat.