Plans for new AI data center in Weld County confirmed

Global AI has announced plans to develop a large-scale artificial intelligence data center in Weld County, Colorado, confirming the purchase of approximately 438 acres near Windsor and Greeley. This acquisition, which includes parts of the former Carestream Health site, signifies a substantial investment aimed at supporting advanced AI computing and cloud infrastructure. Weld County Planning and Development Services Director David Eisenbraun stated that while the county is aware of conceptual discussions, no formal proposal has been submitted. Should a proposal be advanced, it would undergo a comprehensive review assessing land-use compatibility, infrastructure, water availability, and environmental compliance. Developers are also considering annexation into the City of Greeley or the Town of Windsor to secure essential municipal services. A primary concern for the project is the substantial water requirement for modern AI computing facilities, particularly in Colorado's semi-arid climate and complex water rights system. Environmental advocates are urging rigorous evaluations of groundwater impacts, electricity consumption, and emissions, arguing that tax incentives without robust safeguards could jeopardize Colorado's climate goals. Eisenbraun, however, downplayed the facility's water demand, claiming it would use roughly the same amount as an average household annually. This claim is met with skepticism by water conservation activist Samantha Nauman, who expressed worries that large-scale AI facilities would deplete natural resources and exacerbate existing water allocation problems, especially impacting agricultural land. The project also ties into broader legislative debates in Colorado, with HB26-1030 proposing state sales and use tax exemptions for certified data center projects for up to 20 years. Supporters highlight potential property and use tax revenue, job creation, and economic stimulation, while opponents warn that such incentives could diminish long-term state revenue and strain utilities. Public engagement, including hearings and zoning decisions, is anticipated to be a crucial step for residents to address concerns as the project progresses.