News Summary
Microsoft is set to establish a new data center, known as ‘Project Nova,’ in Caledonia, Wisconsin, covering a 245-acre site. While the project is still in the planning phases, it could bring job opportunities and tax revenue to the area. However, local residents have raised environmental concerns and expressed opposition, prompting Microsoft’s engagement efforts to address community feedback and emphasize the project’s potential benefits.
Caledonia, Wisconsin – Microsoft has confirmed plans for a new data center, referred to as “Project Nova,” in the Village of Caledonia. This announcement was made on September 23 and the proposed site encompasses a 245-acre area located at the intersection of Douglas Avenue and County Line Road, near the border with Milwaukee County. The project is currently in the early planning stages, which is expected to be a lengthy process taking several years.
The land intended for development is currently owned by We Energies. Initial conceptual designs for the project include plans for three data center buildings, an electrical substation, and stormwater retention areas. Specific details regarding the total investment, anticipated water and electricity consumption, and job creation remain undisclosed.
Recently, Microsoft has announced several substantial investments in nearby areas, including a $4 billion investment in a second data center in Mount Pleasant, as well as a $3.3 billion facility that is currently under development. The company has also acquired additional land in Mount Pleasant for potential future expansion and has purchased 240 acres in Kenosha for yet another possible data center.
In Caledonia, Microsoft aims to work collaboratively with We Energies to mitigate potential energy bill increases for local residents. Furthermore, the company does not expect a significant requirement for water from Lake Michigan for the operations of the Caledonia facility.
Community Opposition
Despite the potential economic benefits, the proposal has met with opposition from local residents. Many community members have expressed concerns regarding the environmental impact of the project, including issues relating to noise, changes to the character of the community, and the effects on local wildlife and wetlands.
Residents have actively circulated petitions against the project and raised their concerns during public meetings. The feelings of opposition have been centered on perceptions of secrecy surrounding the planning process, with many stating they feel deceived by the fast-paced nature of the proposal and a perceived lack of adequate community involvement.
Public Engagement and Next Steps
In response to community concerns, Microsoft organized an informational meeting for residents on September 24, where attendees were encouraged to ask questions and share their feedback. Additionally, a public hearing regarding the necessary rezoning for the project is scheduled for September 29, where the Plan Commission is set to discuss and vote on the proposal.
During the engagement process, Microsoft representatives have emphasized the potential benefits of the project, including job opportunities and increased tax revenue for the local area. Some community members have expressed support for the data center, highlighting the financial benefits it could bring to Caledonia.
As Microsoft continues to move forward with “Project Nova,” the tech giant remains focused on emphasizing its commitment to sustainability and responsible community engagement, aiming to address residents’ concerns while outlining the positive impacts of the proposed data center.
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Additional Resources
- TMJ4 News
- Wikipedia: Microsoft
- Fox6 Now
- Google Search: Caledonia data center
- Journal Sentinel
- Google Scholar: Microsoft data centers
- Urban Milwaukee
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Data Centers
- Racine County Eye
- Google News: Microsoft data center Caledonia
Author: STAFF HERE MILWAUKEE WRITER
MILWAUKEE STAFF WRITER The MILWAUKEE STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREMilwaukee.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Milwaukee, Milwaukee County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as Summerfest, Milwaukee Film Festival, and the Milwaukee Boat Show. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Metropolitan Milwaukee Association of Commerce and Visit Milwaukee, plus leading businesses in manufacturing and brewing that power the local economy such as Harley-Davidson and MillerCoors. As part of the broader HERE network, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Wisconsin's dynamic landscape.
