East side data center campus recommended for approval
A proposed $2 billion data center campus by DC Blox near Irvington, Indianapolis, has been recommended for approval by the Metropolitan Development Commission hearing examiner, despite significant community opposition. Residents raised concerns about environmental impacts, health, and utility costs, advocating for a delay until city regulations on data centers are finalized, especially after the City-County Council approved a resolution calling for a development moratorium.
A $2 billion data center campus proposed by Georgia-based developer DC Blox in Indianapolis has been recommended for approval by Metropolitan Development Commission (MDC) hearing examiner Judy Weerts Hall, despite strong community opposition. The project, planned for a brownfield site at the Thunderbird Commerce Center near South Kitley Avenue and the Pennsy Trail, requires a use variance because data centers are not currently allowed in its zoning classification.
Dozens of community members attended the June 11 MDC hearing, expressing concerns about the facility's proximity to homes, its potential to use 78 megawatts of electricity, and the operation of 56 backup generators. Residents like Lisa Kirkwood emphasized the need for greater public input, while Dawn Briggs urged a denial until the city finalizes data center regulations, citing the Indianapolis City-County Council's recent unanimous approval of a resolution calling for a moratorium on data center development. Briggs requested more time to gather information, understand impacts, and secure commitments to address community concerns.
DC Blox representatives presented plans for the three-building campus, agreeing to fund energy infrastructure improvements and commit to using local labor unions for construction. They also pledged to donate to Pennsy Trail maintenance and highlighted their experience with brownfield development, assuring adherence to environmental regulations. Despite these assurances and the hearing examiner's recommendation, the proposal now moves to the full Metropolitan Development Commission for a final vote, with local residents continuing to voice their opposition.