Google Advances Data Center Projects in Iowa and Michigan
Google is moving forward with data center developments in Iowa and Michigan, securing a study agreement in Salix and a final site plan in Van Buren Township.
The technology company Google is advancing two distinct data center developments in the Midwest. In Salix, Iowa, the City Council voted 3-2 to approve a memorandum of understanding to study a proposed 900-acre facility. The agreement allocates $150,000 over three months for the city to hire independent experts to review the proposal. Google has committed to sharing six site studies publicly and pledged not to use the Dakota aquifer for cooling.
Mayor Kevin Nelson clarified that the memorandum is not a final approval for the necessary zoning change from agricultural to industrial. He noted that the City Council retains the ultimate decision on whether the project will proceed.
In Michigan, the Van Buren Township Planning Commission voted 5-1 to approve the final site plan for Project Cannoli, a 282-acre data center near the Detroit Metro Airport. Managed by developer Panattoni, the project is supported by a $125 million tax break approved by Wayne County officials, who overrode a veto by Executive Warren Evans. While officials emphasize the multi-billion dollar investment and resulting tax revenue, local residents have protested the development over concerns regarding construction-related noise and dust pollution.
