Data center is a go

The Sangamon County Board in Illinois definitively approved a $500 million data center project by CyrusOne, to be located near Waverly, with a 17-10 vote. This approval occurred after the proposal had been previously tabled 15 days prior. The decision faced considerable public opposition, with residents voicing environmental and economic concerns during public comment. Board member Craig Hall, who represents the district where the facility will be built, openly opposed the project and had initially called for its delay. Brad Houtt, CyrusOne's director of location and power strategy, issued a statement highlighting that the investment is projected to create substantial long-term opportunities for Sangamon County residents, including over 500 construction jobs and more than 100 permanent positions. Despite the developer's assurances, the final vote was met with jeers from the public, and two hecklers were removed by sheriff's deputies. Construction for the facility is anticipated to last five years.