Hobart, Indiana Approves Fill Permit for Controversial Amazon Data Center Project

In a decision that stirred strong emotions among local residents, the City of Hobart, Indiana, has granted a fill permit for the development of an Amazon data center at a site near Colorado Street and 61st Avenue. This decision, made during a meeting on Thursday night, followed fervent public appeals for more thorough environmental and health assessments.

The Hobart Plan Commission meeting was marked by heated exchanges as community members voiced their concerns over the planned data center. The primary issue stemmed from the absence of a detailed site plan, which the petitioner revealed would take another three to four months to complete. This announcement further fueled the crowd’s frustration.

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One resident passionately argued, “It would be criminal negligence for you not to conduct a health impact study, an environmental impact study, and a noise impact study before approving anything further for this project.” Their plea echoed the sentiments of many who worry about the potential consequences of the development.

Despite the opposition, proponents of the data center emphasized the economic benefits it promises to bring, highlighting the potential for thousands of new jobs. They argued that Hobart’s economy stands to gain significantly from the project, asserting that the city cannot afford to miss such an opportunity.

However, those in favor say this will bring thousands of jobs that Hobart can’t afford to lose.

“The AI revolution is coming whether we like it or not. If you choose not to participate in it… from an economy that is the future,” one person said.

READ MORE | Proposed Amazon data center near NW Indiana residential area sparks debate at city meeting