Microsoft plans further land acquisition in Gaines Township amid data center talks

Microsoft plans to expand its land holdings in Gaines Township, Michigan, for a large-scale data center project. The company already owns over 300 acres near 76th Street and Patterson Avenue and is requesting to add more land, including a portion purchased from Steelcase, to its rezoning request. This announcement comes weeks before a crucial public hearing scheduled for April 15th at South Christian High School. Gaines Township Community Development Director Dan Wells confirmed Microsoft's application and the township's cooperation. While a site plan has not yet been submitted, concept plans were shared during community listening meetings held earlier this month. Residents attending these meetings expressed concerns, particularly regarding the ecological aspects and potential noise levels of the data center. Director Wells stated that township officials have been responsive to public feedback, and ongoing discussions with Microsoft are conditional, focusing on operational conditions to address issues like water use and noise. These conditions will be posted on the township's website a week before the public hearing.