5C Group Builds $1.3 Billion Data Center in Springfield

Canada-based AI infrastructure company 5C Group is constructing a $1.3 billion data center at Prime Ohio Corporate Park in Springfield, Ohio. The project involves retrofitting a former LexisNexis facility, expanding the site from 67,000 to 214,000 square feet. The 75-megawatt facility is expected to create 120 permanent jobs, with an initial 25 megawatts scheduled to be operational by late September. Other tenants at the site include Vultr and Crusoe Energy Systems.

While city officials view the project as a vital economic diversifier following the closure of International Motors, local residents have raised concerns regarding noise, energy costs, and health risks associated with 19 planned diesel generators. In response to this resistance, the Springfield city commission approved a six-month moratorium on new hyperscale data centers.

Community opposition has extended to legal and political challenges. Residents are currently collecting signatures for a November ballot initiative to amend the city charter to prohibit such facilities, while also pursuing a proposed statewide ban. PJM Interconnection, the regional grid operator, has attributed rising energy demand in the area to the growth of data centers.