New data center project in SW Cedar Rapids
Cedar Rapids is seeing a third data center project, a 98,000 square foot facility by Clop Cedar Rapids LLC, a branch of Minnesota-based Opdahl. While the city granted a permit and states the area is zoned for industrial use with no incentives provided, residents express mixed emotions and concerns about the rapid growth of data centers.
Cedar Rapids is experiencing a rapid expansion of data centers, with two projects already underway and a third recently revealed, sparking ongoing local and statewide debate. The new 98,000 square foot facility, located at 1515 33rd Avenue, was granted a permit by the city on June 22nd.
The project is spearheaded by Clop Cedar Rapids LLC, a branch of Opdahl, a Minnesota-based property development firm known for smaller data center projects in Des Moines. Mayor Tiffany O'Donnell addressed public concerns, stating that this was a routine economic development project for an industrial area zoned for such use since the early 2000s. She emphasized the importance of distinguishing between data center sizes, noting this particular project aligns with existing land use and may even exceed requirements of other local projects. City officials also clarified that no city incentives were provided for this development.
Despite the city's reassurances, some residents have voiced mixed emotions and questions on social media regarding the growing number of data centers. Drew Johnson, Senior Vice President of Development and Data Center Lead for Opdahl, highlighted the project's local economic benefits, stating that 90% of subcontractors would come from the greater Cedar Rapids area and most materials would be sourced from Midwest suppliers. However, no specific timeline for the project's completion has been announced by Cedar Rapids officials.