Microsoft president hopes residents 'give us a chance' as LaPorte data center breaks ground
Microsoft President Brad Smith broke ground on a new data center in LaPorte, Indiana, appealing to residents to give the company a chance. The project received a favorable recommendation from the city's plan commission but faces opposition from some Hobart residents.
Microsoft President Brad Smith broke ground on the company's first data center building in LaPorte, Indiana, on June 17, 2026. This event marks the commencement of the first phase of a six-property project for Microsoft. Smith addressed local concerns, expressing his hope that residents would "give us a chance" to demonstrate the company's commitment.
The project had previously received a favorable recommendation from LaPorte's city plan commission. However, despite this approval and the groundbreaking, the development has encountered opposition from some residents in nearby Hobart.