Ypsilanti, October 18, 2025
Residents of Ypsilanti have voiced strong opposition to the construction of a data center by the University of Michigan, raising concerns over noise pollution, environmental impact, and potential disruption to the community. This protest highlights the ongoing tensions between urban development and the preservation of neighborhoods near Ann Arbor, as locals advocate for their rights and quality of life. Community meetings have been organized to discuss these issues, and residents are urging the university to reconsider its plans to prioritize community well-being.
Ypsilanti Residents Protest University of Michigan’s Data Center Construction
Ypsilanti, Michigan – Residents in Ypsilanti Township are actively protesting the University of Michigan’s planned construction of a $1.2 billion data center, citing concerns over noise, environmental impact, and community disruption. The opposition highlights the ongoing tension between urban development and neighborhood preservation near Ann Arbor.
Community Concerns
Local residents have raised several issues regarding the proposed data center:
- Noise Pollution: Anticipated noise and vibrations from the facility could disrupt daily life and local wildlife.
- Environmental Impact: The project may lead to deforestation of South Hydro Park and increased pollution of the Huron River.
- Community Disruption: The development could drive families out of Ypsilanti due to water and noise pollution.
Government Response
Ypsilanti Township officials have expressed skepticism about the project. Township Supervisor Brenda Stumbo has voiced concerns over the university’s transparency and the potential negative effects on the community and environment. The township board has unanimously voted to oppose the data center’s location on Textile Road, citing environmental, health, safety, and noise concerns detrimental to residents and businesses.
University’s Position
The University of Michigan has stated that the data center will not impact local water supplies or electricity costs. The facility is intended to support artificial intelligence research, including both classified and non-classified elements, in partnership with Los Alamos National Laboratory. The university emphasizes its commitment to energy efficiency and minimal environmental impact.
Next Steps
Construction is currently slated to begin in 2026. However, the project has faced significant opposition, including a grassroots movement growing in the Ypsilanti area. Township officials have requested the university to consider alternative locations for the data center, such as the old General Motors Hydramatic property, to mitigate community concerns.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What is the University of Michigan’s data center project?
The University of Michigan plans to construct a $1.2 billion data center in Ypsilanti Township, intended to support artificial intelligence research in partnership with Los Alamos National Laboratory.
Why are Ypsilanti residents protesting the data center?
Residents are concerned about potential noise pollution, environmental impact, and community disruption resulting from the construction and operation of the data center.
What has the Ypsilanti Township Board done in response?
The township board has unanimously voted to oppose the data center’s location on Textile Road, citing environmental, health, safety, and noise concerns detrimental to residents and businesses.
What is the University of Michigan’s stance on the project?
The university asserts that the data center will not impact local water supplies or electricity costs and emphasizes its commitment to energy efficiency and minimal environmental impact.
What are the next steps for the project?
Construction is currently slated to begin in 2026. However, the project faces significant opposition, and township officials have requested the university to consider alternative locations to address community concerns.
Key Features of the Data Center Project
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Project Cost | $1.2 billion |
| Location | Ypsilanti Township, Michigan |
| Purpose | Support artificial intelligence research in partnership with Los Alamos National Laboratory |
| Construction Start | 2026 |
| Community Concerns | Noise pollution, environmental impact, community disruption |
| University’s Position | No impact on local water supplies or electricity costs; commitment to energy efficiency and minimal environmental impact |
| Township’s Response | Opposition to the data center’s location on Textile Road; request for alternative locations |
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
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Author: Construction MI News
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