Judge Blocks Data Center

A Goodhue County judge is temporarily blocking the development of Google data center project in Pine Island.

The order comes after the Minnesota Center for Environmental Advocacy sued Pine Island and developer Ryan Companies to stop Project Skyway, arguing it did not receive an adequate environmental impact study.

The Pine Island City Council approved a conditional use permit for the site in January.

Similar lawsuits have been filed to block data center projects in Lakeville, Hermantown, Monticello, and Faribault.

The TRO will become effective once the MCEA posts a security deposit of $2,000. It is unclear how long the TRO will remain in place.

Throughout the process, local residents have repeatedly voiced opposition to the massive project, citing concerns over the proposed center, citing energy consumption, water usage and noise. 

Xcel Energy recently signed an agreement to supply power for the Google data center that will support core services — including Workspace, Search, YouTube and Maps. 

The data center would be built near Highway 52 and 500th Street.