Joliet City Council Approves $20 Billion Technology Center

The Joliet City Council voted 8-1 on March 19, 2026, to approve preliminary plans and an annexation agreement for the Joliet Technology Center. Led by Hillwood Investment Properties and PowerHouse Data Centers, the $20 billion project will occupy 795 acres of farmland in unincorporated Jackson Township. The campus is planned to feature up to 24 buildings and consume as much as 1.8 gigawatts of power.

City officials highlighted the project's economic potential, including 700 permanent jobs, up to 10,000 construction jobs, and $2.1 billion in local tax revenue over 30 years. These funds are earmarked for Will County, Joliet Junior College, and the Joliet Township High School District. Construction is slated to begin between late 2026 and early 2027, with the first building expected by 2028, though no tech companies have signed on yet.

Councilwoman Suzanna Ibarra cast the sole dissenting vote, citing industrial inequities and the risks posed to District 5 residents. Local residents also raised concerns regarding noise pollution, electrical grid strain, and water consumption. Other council members supported the measure but emphasized the need to monitor the impact on the community to ensure residents see the benefits of the development.