Article

Urbana residents are challenging a billion-dollar hyperscale data center proposal 1.5 miles from Cedar Bog, a vital ecological site. The center, covering approximately 460,000 square feet, threatens the underlying aquifer that supports Cedar Bog's unique wetland ecosystem, home to over 520 plant species, including endangered ones.

A city council meeting attracted 300-400 people, resulting in a 6-1 vote for a one-year moratorium on the data center's construction. Developer claims of reduced water usage have been met with skepticism amid rising community concerns about environmental impacts.