Data Center Information
Last updated: 03/25/2026
- At this time, no data center developer has submitted an application to the City for review or consideration.
- Granite City elected officials and City staff have not entered into any non-disclosure
agreements (NDAs) related to any data center project. - The City is committed to a transparent, public process regarding data centers and any
potential location within Granite City.
This page has been created to provide residents, businesses, and other stakeholders with access to accurate and current information regarding processes, notices, zoning actions, and frequently asked questions related to data centers, should a project be proposed within the community.
Data centers are a relatively new form of large-scale development in the Metro St. Louis region. The City recognizes that residents and stakeholders may have questions and differing perspectives as more information becomes available. To support an informed and efficient public process, the City is accepting questions related to zoning or other data center-related items.
Quick Links
Project Information Center: Current Status
This section is updated as information becomes available and reflects the City’s current status regarding data center-related activities.
- During a public City Council committee meeting on November 18, 2025, the City Council was informed that Granite City is under consideration, along with other sites in Madison and St. Clair Counties, for a potential data center project in the Route 3 Industrial Corridor. Developer Presentation / Information – November 18, 2025.
- No data center project has been formally submitted to the City for review or consideration at this time. Project-specific details will be received only if and when a formal application is submitted.
- As part of its fiduciary responsibility, the City is engaged in an educational and fact- finding process to better understand data center development. This includes discussions with utility providers, regulators, industry professionals, and other communities that have experience with similar projects.
- The City is evaluating best practices and lessons learned from other jurisdictions to understand potential economic impacts, infrastructure considerations, and community standards, while also prioritizing public health, safety, and quality of life.
- If a data center project is formally submitted, the City will retain qualified technical and industry experts, at the expense of the Developer, to advise the City and represent community interests related to zoning, legal, incentive, and development matters.
Public Meetings & Engagement Opportunities
Zoning Review
and Community Standards
Before any data center project could be considered, the City must first address zoning regulations, which establish the legal framework for development standards and enforcement.
Large-scale data centers (often referred to as “hyperscale” facilities) are new to the Metro St. Louis region, and the City does not currently have zoning standards specifically tailored to this type of development.
The City’s Planning Commission is reviewing potential amendments to the City Zoning Code to establish clear, enforceable standards for data center development. Topics under review include, but are not limited to:
- Appropriate project locations
- Noise standards
- Light and glare mitigation
- Environmental considerations
- Buffering and screening requirements
This zoning review does not involve the review or approval of any specific data center project. No data center application has been submitted to the City.
Zoning Review
Documents and Notices
- Apr. 2, 2026 Planning Commission Zoning Amendment Public Hearing Notice
- Apr. 2, 2026 Planning Commission Agenda and Packet
- Feb. 5, 2026 Planning Commission Zoning Amendment Public Hearing Notice
- Feb. 5, 2026 Planning Commission Agenda and Packet
- Current City Zoning Map
Review and Consideration of a Data Center Project
At this time, no data center project has submitted an application to the City for review or consideration.
If a project is submitted in the future, project-specific information — including site design, infrastructure needs, utilities, environmental considerations, and operational details — would be reviewed through established public processes and in accordance with applicable laws and ordinances.
Economic Development Incentives and Community Benefits
No data center developer has submitted a request for economic development incentives to the City for review or consideration.
If a project is proposed, the City would evaluate potential fiscal impacts, including property tax contributions and other economic considerations, in coordination with applicable taxing districts.
Should a project proceed, the City would work with other taxing bodies to explore a Community Benefits Plan intended to provide long-term value for residents and public institutions, such as schools, parks, and municipal services. Any such plan would be documented in writing and subject to public review.