Joliet Considers Approval of State's Largest Data Center Development

Proposed 800-acre campus could bring billions in tax revenue but raises concerns over energy costs and water usage

Mar. 17, 2026 at 2:51am

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The Joliet City Council is considering a controversial proposal for a nearly 800-acre data center campus that would become the largest in Illinois. The project is projected to generate billions in tax revenue over 30 years and create 700 full-time jobs plus up to 10,000 construction jobs, but has faced pushback from residents worried about the development's impact on energy costs and the city's limited water supply.

Why it matters

This decision could have significant long-term implications for Joliet, as the data center campus would be a major economic driver but also raise concerns about sustainability and quality of life for local residents. The debate highlights the tradeoffs cities face when weighing the benefits of large-scale development against potential downsides.

The details

The first data center building would be constructed in 2028, with up to 24 buildings planned when the full project is completed. While the city expects the development to bring billions in property tax revenue and thousands of jobs, several residents spoke out against the proposal, worried it could strain the local power grid and deplete the city's underground water source. Some felt the council should postpone the vote until more assurances could be provided.

  • The Joliet City Council meeting where the proposal was discussed took place on Monday, March 17, 2026.
  • The first data center building is planned to be constructed in 2028.
  • The full data center campus is expected to be completed with up to 24 buildings.

The players

Joliet City Council

The governing body of the city of Joliet, Illinois that is considering approval of the proposed data center development.

Hillwood Investment Properties

The real estate development company behind the proposed data center campus in Joliet.

Powerhouse Data Centers

The data center operator partnering with Hillwood Investment Properties on the Joliet development.

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What’s next

The Joliet City Council is expected to vote on whether to approve the data center development proposal in the coming weeks.

The takeaway

This debate in Joliet highlights the complex tradeoffs cities face when considering large-scale developments that could provide economic benefits but also raise concerns about sustainability and quality of life for residents. As data centers become an increasingly important part of the modern economy, local leaders will need to carefully weigh the pros and cons to make decisions that balance growth and community needs.