The University of Michigan has confirmed its selection of a site on Textile Road in Ypsilanti Township for a new $1.2 billion computing center. The project, which involves a partnership with Los Alamos National Laboratory, aims to provide high-level computing power for national security and scientific research. The facility will be located on 144 acres near the Huron River.
Local officials in Ypsilanti Township maintain their opposition to the project. Township Supervisor Brenda Stumbo and attorney Doug Winters characterized the announcement as a disregard for the community. The township has passed resolutions against data center development and expressed concerns over the project’s lack of transparency and potential local impact.
State taxpayers are contributing $100 million to the project. While the university states the center will generate roughly 200 jobs with an average salary of $200,000, township leaders remain skeptical. They have noted that the university informed them of the final site decision via text message shortly before the public announcement.
U.S. Representative Debbie Dingell criticized the university for its approach, stating that the institution failed to address concerns from residents or provide clear answers about the project’s footprint. The university plans to host a town hall meeting in the township on September 9 to discuss the development. The standoff continues as local officials vow to challenge the project.