CHICAGO (WLS) — Mayor Brandon Johnson signed an executive order Tuesday aimed at creating new regulations for data centers in Chicago, citing residents’ concerns about how the fast-growing industry could affect neighborhoods, utilities and quality of life.<\/p>\n
The move comes two years after the city approved an ordinance establishing a working group to study data center growth and recommend policy changes. Johnson’s executive order incorporates some of those recommendations and sets up a new task force to develop long-term strategies for future projects.<\/p>\n
ABC7 Chicago is now streaming 24\/7. Click here to watch<\/a><\/p>\n Chicago currently has 39 data centers of varying sizes, including a large facility on 30 acres along the south branch of the Chicago River on the Near Southwest Side. Industry executives say another three to five centers are planned, including one proposed in the Illinois Medical District to serve nearby hospitals and research institutions.<\/p>\n At the signing, Johnson said residents have made their expectations clear.<\/p>\n “Chicagoans have been absolutely clear; they do not want data centers expanding across our city without strong protection for their communities, their utility bills, their air, water, and their quality of life,” he said.<\/p>\n