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Microsoft shuts down data center plans
Microsoft is pulling the plug on plans to build a large data center in Caledonia after months of vocal opposition from residents.
CALEDONIA, Wis. - Microsoft is pulling the plug on plans to build a large data center in Caledonia after months of vocal opposition from nearby residents who argued the project would disrupt their homes and way of life.
No data center in Caledonia
What we know:
The company confirmed Wednesday it is no longer pursuing development of 244 acres near the We Energies power plant. Instead, Microsoft said it will work with Caledonia and Racine County officials to find a different site.
The Caledonia Village Board had been scheduled to vote on rezoning the land Tuesday. It’s unclear if that vote will move forward. County leaders did not immediately respond to requests for comment.
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What they're saying:
A Microsoft spokesperson issued the following statement on the decision:
"Based on the community feedback we heard, we have chosen not to move forward with this site; we remain committed to investing in Southeast Wisconsin and look forward to working with the Village of Caledonia and Racine County leaders to identify a site that aligns with community priorities and our long-term development goals."
Racine County Executive Ralph Malick provided the following statement:
"Microsoft has proven to be more than a business partner, they’re a true community partner. Through investments in technology access, workforce training, and support for local nonprofits and youth, they’ve strengthened opportunities for residents across Racine County.
Although Microsoft is no longer pursuing the initial Caledonia site, our collaboration continues. Racine County remains committed to working with Microsoft to identify an alternative location, whether within Caledonia or elsewhere in our County, that supports their goals and our shared vision for sustainable growth and community prosperity."
What had been proposed
The backstory:
Microsoft announced plans earlier this year to build on a site west of the We Energies power plant, off Highway 32 and south of County Line Road in Caledonia.
Microsoft had proposed building a large-scale facility that would house servers and data processing equipment, requiring significant infrastructure for power, cooling and stormwater systems.
Microsoft Caledonia data center; crowd debates project, commission votes
Hundreds of residents filled Caledonia Village Hall on Monday night, Sept. 29, for a heated meeting over a proposed Microsoft data center.
Company representatives and local economic development officials told residents the project would boost the tax base and provide resources for schools, public safety and infrastructure.
But many residents voiced opposition, raising concerns about environmental impact, quality of life and potential grid instability.
Residents come together
Local perspective:
For resident Prescott Balch, who has lived on the land for 12 years caring for rescued horses, the announcement brought relief.
"It would’ve been months on end of pile-driving followed by years on end of dusty high-volume traffic," Balch said. "We give them the best life that they can get to finish out their years."
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Balch began organizing against the project in July and was soon joined by dozens of other residents, including Christopher Atkinson.
"I think that Microsoft found out that they were going to get a no vote and they had to pivot," Atkinson said.
"We’re happy for them to be starting over and looking for a proper location," Balch added
The Source: Information in this post was provided by Microsoft and previous FOX6 News coverage.