$4 Billion Data Center Project Approved for Indy’s Decatur Township

The Indianapolis Metropolitan Development Commission has formally approved a substantial $4 billion data center project slated for Decatur Township, Indianapolis. The 900,000-square-foot facility, proposed by Sabey, will occupy 130 acres on Kentucky Avenue and Camby Road, utilizing land previously zoned for retail and warehouses. The commission's decision involved approving a land use variance, circumventing the need for a full rezoning process reviewed by the Indianapolis City-County Council. Sabey plans to equip the campus with 250 megawatts of capacity and employ a closed-loop cooling system requiring one million gallons of water. The approval has been met with significant local opposition. Dozens of residents attended the commission meeting to voice concerns over potential environmental impacts, increased energy rates, and health risks associated with the data center. Mark Smith, a resident, questioned the approval process, calling the variance decision "a slap in the face" and suggesting Sabey was "sneaking it in the back door." Residents and local coalitions have vowed to continue fighting the project despite its approval. In response to concerns, Sabey has committed to implementing 200-foot buffer zones along residential property lines to mitigate environmental and property value worries. The company projects the data campus will create hundreds of long-term jobs and contribute significantly to the local economy. Furthermore, Sabey intends to invest $5 million in community improvements and generate an estimated $20 million in tax revenues. The project has garnered support from the construction industry. Jon Hooker, president of the Central Indiana Building and Construction Trades Council, expressed enthusiasm for the long-term employment opportunities the data center's initial build-out and ongoing technological changes would provide for construction workers in Indianapolis. Site preparation is expected to begin this year, with the first building anticipated for completion by 2028.