Google Data Center Project in Van Buren Township Nears Construction

Google's massive data center project in Van Buren Township is nearing construction as local planning officials are set to vote on a final site plan. The proposed hyperscale data center, nicknamed 'Project Cannoli,' will be built on 282 acres east of Haggerty Road and north of Interstate 94 North Service Drive.

The center, which will be operated by Google, is projected to use between 2 million and 3.6 million gallons of water per day and one gigawatt of power. Township officials have approved a $125 million local tax break for the project, citing benefits such as requirements for green landscaping, water use, and noise reduction.

Some residents have raised concerns about how the massive center will impact property values, sound levels, and utility usage. A recall campaign has been sparked against the township board, with organizers planning to start gathering signatures in an effort to replace the board with one that would be more transparent and responsive to community concerns.