Microsoft’s data center plans are back before Cherry Valley two years later
Microsoft is seeking to renew an expired special-use permit for a data center project in Cherry Valley, Illinois, with a reduced footprint. The Planning and Zoning Commission approved the request, but residents voiced strong opposition due to concerns over property values, noise, pollution, energy, and water use. The request now proceeds to the Village Board for final approval.
Microsoft is seeking to renew an expired special-use permit for a data center development in Cherry Valley, Illinois. The initial plan, approved in late 2024 for six data center buildings and two substations on over 300 acres in Boone County, expired as construction had not begun by the end of 2025. The revised proposal features a smaller footprint, consisting of three data center buildings and two substations.
The Cherry Valley Planning and Zoning Commission unanimously approved Microsoft's renewal request with a 5-0 vote. However, the decision drew significant public opposition, with residents packing Village Hall. Seven individuals spoke against the project, raising concerns about potential impacts on property values, noise, air pollution, and the consumption of energy and water. Former village trustee Lori Laye expressed strong disapproval, stating the project would negatively affect home values.
Microsoft representatives, including senior community affairs manager Victoria Rudd, addressed these environmental concerns. They asserted that the data center's design minimizes water usage, uses advanced closed-loop cooling, and commits to funding necessary upgrades to the village's water system. Microsoft also pledged to collaborate with ComEd to cover its share of electric service costs and any required infrastructure upgrades, ensuring residential customers are not burdened with increased electricity pricing. Ringland-Johnson Construction representatives supported the project, citing job creation.
If the Cherry Valley Village Board grants final approval, construction could commence in 2027, with the first data center building becoming operational by 2030. The permit, if extended, would be valid until August 31, 2029. This local discussion occurred on the same day the U.S. House passed the bipartisan Ratepayer Protection Act, a bill aimed at making tech companies contribute to energy infrastructure costs to protect residential consumers from rising bills associated with artificial intelligence demands.