University of Michigan Reevaluates Data Center Plans Amid Local Concerns

The University of Michigan is reassessing plans for a controversial data center aimed at advancing research in artificial intelligence, energy, and national security. Officials have confirmed they are re-engaging in negotiations regarding the campus location in the Ypsilanti area, specifically off Textile Road, which has faced significant local opposition.

The proposed project, developed in collaboration with a national laboratory under the U.S. Department of Energy, is estimated to cost $1.2 billion. It involves constructing two buildings: one for classified research and another for non-classified studies. Despite the university’s stated preference for the Textile Road site, discussions have reopened regarding a potential location on the former General Motors facility near Willow Run Airport.

According to Chris Kolb, the university’s vice president for government relations, there have been ongoing negotiations with the American Center for Mobility, which manages land west of the airport. This site has garnered interest from local township officials who are advocating for it over the Textile Road location. Kolb noted, “At the request of the Township, U-M has re-engaged with ACM to evaluate the viability of their site for this facility.”

Despite these developments, the university maintains that the Textile Road area remains the most suitable option. Kolb emphasized the benefits of the existing light industrial zoning and infrastructure, which he believes supports the project’s needs while minimizing environmental impacts. He stated, “The university is committed to building and operating this facility in a way that would protect the Huron River and minimize noise, emissions, and other environmental impacts.”

Local officials have expressed frustration regarding the university’s lack of communication. At a recent township Board of Trustees meeting, attorney Doug Winters revealed that township officials were unaware of the long-term negotiations with ACM until late July. He criticized the university for not keeping the township informed, highlighting that they are not part of the negotiations and have limited power to intervene.

In a memo presented to the board, township officials outlined their opposition to the Textile Road site due to various concerns, including environmental and health impacts. The board unanimously passed a resolution opposing the current proposed location, stating, “The full-time elected officials have voiced our opposition… for a variety of reasons.”

The community’s response to the project has been mixed. While many township officials are against the Textile Road site, some residents called for broader opposition to all data center projects, citing fears over classified research and the implications of the national laboratory’s involvement.

Township Supervisor Brenda Stumbo suggested that the former GM site could be more appropriate given its history of industrial use. Meanwhile, the township board has taken proactive steps, including hiring environmental attorney Grant Trigger to navigate potential changes in the data center’s location. Trigger’s expertise will assist the township in preparing for discussions with university officials and analyzing environmental assessments.

The board also voted to direct the planning commission to review the local zoning ordinance. Currently, data centers are permitted on land designated for industrial and commercial revitalization (ICR) and logistics and manufacturing (LM), including both the Textile Road and Willow Run sites. The aim is to limit future data centers to ICR land only, which is closer to essential infrastructure for water services.

Construction of the data center campus is slated to begin in 2026, with an operational target set for 2030. As negotiations continue, the university remains committed to addressing community concerns while advancing its research objectives. The outcome of these discussions will be closely monitored by both the university and local officials, who are eager to ensure that the development aligns with the interests of the Ypsilanti community.