A 'mouse,' not an 'elephant': Evanston developer pitches small-scale data center on Hartrey Avenue
Evanston developer Reed Beidler of Lark Management is proposing a small-scale computer processing center at 1265 Hartrey Ave., which he describes as a "mouse" compared to larger data centers. Evanston Mayor Daniel Biss has publicly stated his opposition to the proposal, citing environmental and societal concerns related to AI and data centers. Beidler has filed a zoning analysis application, the first step in the city's approval process.
Reed Beidler, 78, president of Lark Management, is proposing a small-scale computer processing center at 1265 Hartrey Avenue in Evanston, Illinois, alongside an innovation incubator at 1245 Hartrey. Beidler, whose family owns the buildings, envisions the center providing rental processing power for larger organizations like universities or hospitals, as well as small businesses.
Evanston Mayor Daniel Biss has publicly opposed the proposal, stating, "We don't need more data centers, we need Congress to do its job and put guardrails around AI before it causes more damage to our planet, or people and our economy. I oppose this proposal." Beidler acknowledges negative public perception of data centers, often linked to concerns over high energy and water consumption, but argues his 20,000-square-foot facility is far smaller and will utilize existing industrial infrastructure, creating local jobs.
Beidler filed a zoning analysis application with the City of Evanston on September 16, asserting it is a permitted use under current zoning. This application is the initial step in the city's approval process. The article also mentions a proposed Data Center Moratorium Ordinance in Chicago, which would pause new data center development for 12 months, highlighting broader regional discussions on the industry. Councilmember Krissie Harris (2nd Ward) is awaiting more information before making a decision.