Port Washington approves $8 B data centre
City leaders back major project but residents voice concern over power lines to serve the facility.
Image for illustrative purposes
USA, Wisconsin, Port Washington: Port Washington officials have approved an $8 B data centre project, even as some nearby residents raise concerns about the power infrastructure required to support it.
The Common Council voted to move ahead with plans for the data centre campus, which will cover 770 ha (1,900 acres) north of the city’s downtown. Mayor Ted Neitzke said the development represents a “minimum guaranteed value” of $8 B.
City leaders highlighted that tax-increment financing will ensure the city does not pay the $175 M in infrastructure improvements needed. Officials also said the project could help lower property taxes for residents.
The proposed data centre will have a capacity of 3.5 GW, making it one of the largest facilities of its kind. However, local residents have voiced concerns over the American Transmission Company’s plans for new power lines to serve the site.
“It is going to run on our property, down the side of our property,” said Patricia Aversa, a resident of the nearby Town of Saukville.
The project is expected to bring significant investment and economic benefits to Port Washington, but balancing those gains with the impact of transmission infrastructure remains a contentious issue.
Source: TMJ4
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