Evanston officials say proposed data center needs zoning amendment
Evanston city officials have indicated that a proposed data center at 1265 Hartrey Ave. would likely require a zoning code amendment, a more public process involving the Land Use Commission and City Council. This position contradicts the developer's belief that the project could be approved under existing rules. Residents have also expressed wariness regarding the development.
Evanston, Illinois, city officials have informed the developer of a proposed data center at 1265 Hartrey Ave. that the project would likely necessitate a zoning code amendment. This official stance contradicts the developer, Reed Beidler, who had contended that the project could be permitted under existing city rules.
The requirement for a zoning amendment means the proposal will undergo a more extensive and public review process, involving both the Land Use Commission and the City Council for ultimate approval. Local residents in the Second Ward have already voiced wariness regarding the data center development.