Residents of Irvington, on the east side of Indianapolis, are voicing concerns about a proposed $2 billion data center by Georgia-based developer DC Blox. The development is planned for a 150-acre industrial park near South Kitley Avenue, a site previously occupied by a Ford factory and now considered a brownfield. This has raised environmental concerns among locals, particularly regarding the potential disturbance of contaminated soil and noise from 56 diesel generators planned for the site.
Community Engagement and Concerns
Megan Lapa, a local resident, initially thought the data center might be a good fit given its industrial zoning and DC Blox’s commitments to improve energy infrastructure and use local labor. However, her concerns grew upon learning about the site’s environmental risks. The proximity of the data center to Irvington Community Elementary School has also raised worries about the impact on students.
Republican City-County Councilor Michael Paul Hart and Democratic Councilor Andy Nielsen, whose districts border the proposed site, have both engaged with the community. Despite hosting town halls and gathering resident feedback, neither councilor has significant power over the project’s approval, as it requires a use variance from the city’s Metropolitan Development Commission (MDC), not a rezoning.
Environmental and Health Concerns
Residents have expressed fears about air pollution and groundwater contamination during construction. The Indiana Department of Environmental Management has identified harmful chemicals, including vinyl chloride, in the soil, which are associated with increased cancer risks. DC Blox has assured that they will adhere to best practices and local regulations in handling the contaminated soil.
Despite these assurances, Lapa and other residents remain skeptical. They argue that the community’s quality of life and health should be prioritized, and they call for the remediation of the site’s toxins. Some residents have suggested alternative uses for the land, such as expanding school outdoor spaces.
Next Steps
The MDC’s hearing examiner will review the proposal on June 11 at the City-County Building. The hearing will determine whether the project moves forward, and residents are encouraged to attend and make their voices heard. Councilor Nielsen emphasizes the importance of community involvement in the decision-making process.
While Councilor Hart remains undecided, he notes that the council can influence any incentive packages offered to DC Blox, ensuring community interests are considered. The outcome of this proposal could set a precedent for future developments in the area.
Original reporting: Mirror Indy — read the source article.
