A 20-story data center tower could be built in downtown Kansas City. See where
Kansas City officials are reviewing proposed plans for a 20-story data center tower at 934 Central St. in downtown, which would require demolishing a historic building. The project, tied to Revitalization Unlimited, will need a special use permit and zoning changes, along with public hearings. The City Plan Commission is slated to consider the development plan on August 5th.
Kansas City officials are currently reviewing a proposal for a 20-story data center tower to be erected at 934 Central St. in the downtown area. The project, spearheaded by Miami-based real estate investment fund Revitalization Unlimited, involves demolishing the 1900-built Western Newspaper Union Building, which is listed on the National Register of Historic Places, to make way for the 384-foot tower. The ground floor of the proposed structure would feature retail space, potentially a coffee shop, with the remaining floors dedicated to data center infrastructure.
The development plan, filed earlier this month, indicates the data center would employ a "closed-loop" water system for cooling and generate power on-site using natural gas fuel cells. Utility providers Spire and KC Water have confirmed their support for infrastructure and water services, respectively.
While data centers are permitted in downtown Kansas City, the project faces several regulatory hurdles. Due to recent City Council rule changes, the development will require a special use permit from two city boards and a zoning change, both of which necessitate public hearings. Additionally, the proposal will undergo a demolition review by the Historic Preservation Commission, which has the authority to delay demolition for up to 45 days. The City Plan Commission is scheduled to evaluate the development plan on August 5.