Indianapolis Groups Propose Neighborhood-Owned Data Centers
Two Indianapolis groups, Joyer Pir and Burton Advisors, are proposing small, potentially underground, neighborhood-owned data centers. No facilities have been built, but the groups hope to work with six neighborhoods while Indianapolis has placed new data center approvals on hold through 2027.
Joyer Pir and Burton Advisors are developing a concept for bookshelf-sized, potentially underground data centers owned and operated by local neighborhoods in Indianapolis. The systems could support community Wi-Fi, local artificial intelligence tools and greater resident control over how neighborhood information is collected and shared.
The proposal remains preliminary: no location or construction funding has been announced, and no facilities have been built. The groups aim to begin working with six neighborhoods next year, as Indianapolis keeps new data center approvals on hold through 2027. The report also raises the question of whether residents would want such facilities in their communities and emphasizes that meaningful participation would require public knowledge, education and a voice in decision-making.