Application Filed For Data Center In Evanston

EVANSTON, IL — Evanston city staff has completed an initial review of materials submitted for a proposed computer processing center at 1265 Hartrey and found the use does not currently appear to fit under the city's existing rules.

The review was conducted by Community Development staff after an application was submitted Sept. 16. Planning Manager Liz Williams told the Evanston RoundTable last week that the application is for what’s better known as a data center.

According to the city, the proposal does not currently appear to qualify as a listed permitted or special use under Evanston's regulations. Because of that initial finding, staff believes a text amendment to the city code would be necessary before this type of use could be established, pending receipt and review of more information from the applicant.

The city said the original application was limited, and staff has formally requested additional information. That review is still in its early stages, and the city's position could depend on what is submitted next.

Residents have already begun weighing in. Although the proposal is not explicitly listed on the agenda for the upcoming Monday City Council meeting, residents submitted public comments in advance expressing opposition to construction of the data center.

City staff plans to make a brief official statement during the City Manager announcements portion of that meeting. The statement is expected to address the proposed development and the initial findings from staff's review.