Board of Public Services greenlights Midtown data center
The St. Louis Board of Public Services unanimously approved a conditional use permit for a multi-billion-dollar data center project at the old Famous-Barr warehouse site in Midtown. Despite resident concerns over noise, utility bills, and resource consumption, the city added strict requirements for the developer, including a closed-loop water system and renewable energy mandates. The project is expected to generate significant tax revenue and create jobs.
The City of St. Louis Board of Public Service unanimously approved a conditional use permit for a multi-billion-dollar data center project in Midtown. The project, slated for the old Famous-Barr warehouse site near the Armory, won a 5-0 vote from the board. This decision is expected to generate over $432 million in tax revenue over the next decade, with more than $200 million earmarked for St. Louis Public Schools, including $33.4 million in the first year of operation. The project is anticipated to be fully operational by the end of 2028.
However, some residents and business owners voiced significant concerns, arguing that the long-term impact on the quality of life outweighs the benefits. Opponents highlighted potential issues such as increased noise, strain on vital resources, and higher water and electricity bills for taxpayers due to the data center's energy demands. They also expressed skepticism, suggesting the financial benefits would primarily go to the developer.
In response to these concerns, the city imposed strict requirements on the developer. These conditions include implementing a closed-loop water system to minimize water usage, mandating at least 50% renewable energy within five years, limiting generator use, and enforcing stringent noise control measures. City leaders and the mayor emphasized that checks and balances are in place to ensure the developer adheres to these promises, aiming for a "win-win situation" for the city.