Google has commenced construction of its $832 million Project Maize data center campus in Michigan City, Indiana. The firm confirmed its acquisition of the data center site in the city as announced by Broderick Green, Google data center public affairs manager. “We understand this site has faced challenges in the past, and we are committed to being a collaborative and transparent partner as we move forward. That’s why we’re committed to a sustainable, long-term presence that benefits the entire community, “he noted. He also added that Google would pay for 100% of the cost of power for the site and any infrastructure needs driven by their operations.
A representative for Michigan City Mayor Angie Nelson Deuitch also confirmed Google’s operations. The Michigan City Economic Development Corporation also confirmed the development on its website. The data center will be located at 402 Royal Road. The site was formerly occupied by Federal Mogul Corporation and has been owned by Phoenix Investors since 2022.
Other Projects
Indiana is becoming a major data center hub with many tech companies such as Amazon also eyeing the state to build their A.I infrastructure. In 2024, Indiana Gov. Eric Holcomb announced that Amazon will invest $11B on behalf of Amazon Web Services, the cloud computing arm of the company to build a cutting-edge data center campus in north-central Indiana. He called the commitment, “the largest capital investment in the state’s history”. The Governor also said, “Indiana’s focus on building technology is paying off for its people. Amazon Web Services (AWS) will create over 1,000 new jobs, making Indiana a leader in the digital world.” Fast-forward to 2026, Amazon’s $11 billion AI data center project in New Carlisle, Indiana—known as Project Rainier—is largely operational. Moreover, it is undergoing rapid expansion, with plans to grow into a 30-building campus. The facility is also dedicated to training and running AI models for Anthropic.
Opposition against Project Maize Data Center Campus by Google
Despite advancements, local communities are mounting opposition towards the Project Maize data center campus by Google. They are concerned with the data center since its initial announcement at local meetings. Moreover, they are concerned with the project’s effects on community health, environment, and local workforce.
The Indiana Department of Environmental Management and Michigan City officials have received letters regarding the center. They were sent by Executive Director of Just Transition Northwest Indiana Ashley Williams, on behalf of various organizations. The letters propose the halting of construction and related soil disturbance. Michigan City residents have also filed a zoning complaint to attempt to halt construction.
Locals also allege that Michigan City officials are refusing to allow them to view data center site plans. They note it goes against a statute in Indiana Code that would allow municipalities to deny access if there’s a threat to public safety. IDEM, on March 19, approved an air permit for the facility that allows for 66 diesel-fired critical emergency generators. However, Just Transition Northwest Indiana created a petition to ask the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency to object to the permit.
Project Overview
- Project Name: Project Maize Data Center Campus
- Project Type: Hyperscale data center
- Value: ~$832 million
- Purpose: Cloud and digital infrastructure development
- Status: Construction underway
Key Stakeholders
- Developer / Operator: Google
- Local Authority: Michigan City government
- Regulator: Indiana Department of Environmental Management
- Site Owner (former): Phoenix Investors
- Community Group: Just Transition Northwest Indiana
Location
- Site: 402 Royal Road
- City: Michigan City
- State: Indiana
- Country: United States
Scope
- Development of a large-scale data center campus
- Redevelopment of former industrial site (Federal Mogul)
- Supporting power and infrastructure systems
Funding / Delivery Model
- Privately funded by Google
- Developer covers power and infrastructure costs
- Local regulatory approvals required
Status
- Site acquisition confirmed
- Construction activities commenced
- Air permit approved (March 19)
Key Risks & Challenges
- Strong community opposition
- Environmental and health concerns
- Zoning and legal complaints
- Transparency concerns over site plans
Strategic Significance
- Expands Google’s data center footprint
- Reuses underutilized industrial land
- Supports regional digital infrastructure growth
Environmental & Regulatory Issues
- Air permit includes 66 diesel emergency generators
- Petition filed to U.S. Environmental Protection Agency
- Requests to halt construction and soil disturbance
- Ongoing scrutiny from local groups
