Midtown Center development will move forward without computing facility, alderman says
A proposed computing research facility, perceived as a data center, has been removed from the Midtown Center redevelopment plans in Milwaukee, Wisconsin. This decision followed extensive public feedback and concerns about environmental impacts, particularly regarding water and energy use. The amended development will now feature housing, a new library branch, and expanded storage units.
Milwaukee Ald. Mark Chambers Jr. announced that a proposed computing research facility will no longer be part of the Midtown Center redevelopment plans, following significant public opposition. The facility, which property owner Trent Overhue of Affordable Family Storage (AFS) described as a smaller computing research site for private tenants, was widely perceived as a data center by residents.
The decision came after several heated public information sessions and an hours-long hearing before the City Plan Commission, where residents voiced strong concerns about the environmental impact of data centers, specifically regarding water and energy consumption. Alderman Chambers stated that the public feedback and outcry played a crucial role in the applicant's decision to remove the facility from the plans.
The amended development for the former Walmart site at 5825 W. Hope Ave. will now include housing, a new Milwaukee Public Library branch, and expanded storage units. Chambers believes this revised plan better reflects the community's vision and will lead to a transformative investment that reactivates the long-vacant property, expands essential services, and improves the quality of life for residents in the 2nd Aldermanic District.