U-M closes on purchase of Textile Road land in Ypsilanti Township
News ClipWEMU·Ypsilanti, Washtenaw County, MI·3/19/2026
The University of Michigan has purchased 124 acres in Ypsilanti Township for a proposed high-performance research facility with Los Alamos National Laboratory. The Township Supervisor criticized the university's communication and raised security concerns. U-M states this purchase secures an option but is not a final location decision.
announcementgovernmentopposition
Gov: Ypsilanti Township, University of Michigan, Los Alamos National Laboratory
The University of Michigan (U-M) has finalized the acquisition of 124 acres of land off Textile Road in Ypsilanti Township. This newly acquired site is being considered as the potential location for a high-performance research facility, which would involve collaboration with Los Alamos National Laboratory. The article's image caption also references the facility as a "proposed U-M data center."
Ypsilanti Township Supervisor Brenda Stumbo voiced strong disapproval of U-M's communication during the process, stating she was only informed of the purchase via a text message from U-M Vice President Chris Kolb. Stumbo highlighted a lack of discussions regarding security for the Los Alamos Laboratory facility, expressing concerns that it would be vulnerable to anti-American groups.
In response, U-M Assistant Vice President Paul Corliss clarified that while the land purchase ensures the university retains a viable option, it does not represent a final determination of where the facility will ultimately be located. The article also notes an open house held on January 29, 2026, about the proposed data center, suggesting public engagement and scrutiny surrounding the project.