Data centers in Illinois: City council approves plans for Joliet data center near Bernhard and Rowell, east of Speedway

The Joliet City Council has officially approved plans for a large 795-acre data center, to be known as the Joliet Technology Center, located near Bernhard and Rowell, east of the Chicagoland Speedway. The vote passed with all but one council member in favor, following weeks of debate and hours of public testimony. City Manager Beth Beatty stated that the annexation agreement sets clear expectations for infrastructure, services, and community benefits, while also promising substantial new revenue for local taxing bodies and long-term financial advantages for the community. Local union workers, including Doc Gregory, president of Will Grundy Building Trades, supported the project, citing the creation of an estimated 7,000 to 10,000 locally sourced construction jobs over five years, and 700 permanent onsite jobs. However, the decision was met with frustration and concern from many residents, including Craig Doorneweerd and Velshay Stokes, who live near the proposed facility. They voiced fears about the project's environmental impacts, uncertainty about their livelihoods, and a feeling of being unheard by city officials. Another resident, Carley, emphasized that jobs come and go, but health and environment do not return. Joliet officials anticipate the data center will generate $310 million in property taxes over the next 30 years, with significant portions benefiting the Joliet Township High School District ($670 million), Will County ($146 million), and Joliet Junior College ($76 million). With the project now officially in motion, developers aim to begin construction in early 2027. There was also a mention of ComEd's plans to lessen the burden of electric costs for consumers concerned about data centers.