Sabey Data Centers’ $4 billion project in Indianapolis gets OK to build

INDIANAPOLIS (WISH) — A massive, $4 billon data center will be built on the southeast side of Indianapolis.

The Metropolitan Development Commission on Wednesday afternoon approved the proposal for Decatur Township despite strong opposition from residents.

The decision came after weeks of debate, with neighbors raising concerns about how the project could impact their community.

“It’s a slap in the face,” said Randi Berryman of Protect Decatur Township.

Seattle-based Sabey Data Centers plans to build a center with more 1 million square feet on a campus across multiple properties along Kentucky Avenue and Camby Road.

Neighbors have raised concerns throughout the process such as potential environmental impacts, health risks, and a decrease in property values.

Resident Mark Smith said, “If this company wanted to be a good neighbor and wanted to be a part of our neighbrohood and stuff, why are they sneaking it in the back door on a variance change on the zoning.”.

As part of the plan, the developer asked for several zoning exceptions, including permission for a data center not currently allowed, fewer parking spaces than typically required, and flexibility on building height and large outdoor operational areas.

Several people at the hearing supported the data center.

Republican City-County Councilor Joshua Bain, whose district includes p...