A $2 billion data center proposed for Wisconsin’s Driftless Area has fallen apart after months of discussions between local economic development officials and out-of-state developers. The project, which would have been one of the largest in the county, was first announced in December by Ron Brisbois, the economic development director for Grant County.

Background

The developers, who were not named, had been scouting locations in northern Illinois for a cryptocurrency project when they discovered the area’s access to a high-voltage transmission line. They met with Brisbois and other local officials, discussing the potential for a hyperscale data center that would have brought dozens of new jobs and millions of dollars in tax revenue to the area.

However, the developers suddenly stopped returning calls and emails, leaving the project’s status uncertain. Brisbois said he was initially excited about the prospect of bringing new economic development to the area, but became concerned when the developers failed to provide more information about their plans.

Local residents had also expressed concerns about the potential impact of the data center on the area’s water supply and environment. A rally was held in March, featuring comedian Charlie Berens, to raise awareness about the issue.

The project’s collapse has left many in the community wondering what could have been. Brisbois said he was disappointed that the project did not move forward, but acknowledged that the area’s unique character and natural beauty must be protected.

Original reporting: Wisconsin Watch — read the source article.