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The LaPorte Board of Zoning Appeals approved a zoning variance on January 13 for a new data center at Thomas Rose Industrial Park, allowing buildings to reach 65 feet in height on the 110-acre site. The variance is necessary as existing zoning caps heights at 45 feet or 60 feet with a variance.

LaPorte 1, LLC, the developer, argues the extra height is essential for air-cooled servers. Increased setbacks of 250 to 370 feet from adjacent properties aim to mitigate visual impact. While the employment figures remain uncertain, estimates suggest 15 to 40 employees per building.

Local residents have expressed concerns regarding property values and environmental impacts. This project follows a prior deal with Microsoft for a separate data center, projected at $1 billion, with construction anticipated to start late this year or in 2027, pending further approvals.