Michigan City Residents Voice Concerns Over Proposed Data Center's Environmental Impact
Residents of Michigan City, Indiana, are expressing concerns over a proposed data center that could exacerbate local air quality issues. The Indiana Department of Environmental Management (IDEM) held a public meeting to discuss an air permit for the data center, which would allow the installation of 70 diesel generators. Local residents, including Donnita Scully, a nurse, and Ashley Williams, an activist, voiced fears that the project could worsen respiratory illnesses in the area. The data center, known as Project Maize, has faced criticism for potentially increasing diesel pollutants in a region already suffering from above-average respiratory issues. IDEM officials, including Jenny Acker, stated that the permit process adheres to federal and state regulations, and they cannot deny the permit if it meets these requirements.