Indy Commission Clears Way For First Hyperscale Data Center City

A controversial $4 billion hyperscale data center project by Sabey Data Center Properties LLC in Indianapolis has secured a crucial approval from the Metropolitan Development Commission. The facility, planned for a 130-acre site at the northeast corner of Camby Road and Kentucky Avenue in Decatur Township, will be a 250MW "data center technology park" and is poised to be the city's first hyperscale development. The commission’s 6-2 vote on March 18 followed a two-hour hearing marked by strong opposition from local residents. More than 50 people, many wearing red and holding "NO DATA CENTER" signs, attended the hearing, while over 1,300 had signed a petition against the project. The Decatur Township Civic League also voted overwhelmingly against the center, citing incompatibility with the surrounding mixed-use and residential development. Residents voiced concerns about potential negative impacts on property values, health, high energy usage, water consumption, and noise levels from generators. Despite the opposition, the petition advanced with support from city staff and Indy Economic Development Inc. Councilor Josh Bain, representing the area, initially supported the commitments made by developers, though he later clarified he did not directly support the project. Sabey's attorney, Mindy Westrick Brown, highlighted the project as one of Indianapolis's largest investments, while AES, the local energy provider, committed to supplying electricity. Although a final incentives package is pending, Sabey director Clete Casper affirmed the company's commitment to the project, even without city tax abatement. This approval represents one of the final hurdles for construction, as a full rezoning was not required, bypassing a vote by the Indianapolis City-County Council.