Digital Realty Faces Opposition to Data Center Expansion in Chicago’s Prairie District Neighborhood

Residents of Chicago’s Prairie District neighborhood are expressing their concerns over the expansion plans of data center developer Digital Realty near McCormick Place. The proposed 271-foot-tall data center would be built within the former R.R. Donnelly printing plant on 21st Street. However, the Prairie District Neighborhood Association is leading a rally against the project.

The opposition is not against development itself, but specifically the installation of a noisy and air-polluting data center in a residential area. Tina Feldstein, President of the Prairie District Neighborhood Association, stated that the residents are supportive of development but not at the cost of their quality of life.

Initially, Digital Realty Trust had proposed a taller 310-foot data center in 2016, but it was later scaled back to 271 feet. Despite the downsizing, the opposition remains strong, with over 685 signatures on an online petition calling for the cancellation of the project altogether.

The fate of the data center lies in the hands of Alderman Pat Dowell, who represents the 3rd Ward that includes the site. Dowell expressed that he has not yet made a decision to support or oppose the proposal. He is currently evaluating feedback from the neighbors, developers, and city departments.

In addition to concerns about noise and air pollution, opponents claim that the data center would have a negative impact on the historic character of the neighborhood. They are focused on preserving the residential nature of the area and maintaining appropriate land use.

Sources:
– Crain’s – [Insert URL]
– Prairie District Neighborhood Association – [Insert URL]