News Summary
Former U.S. Senator Kyrsten Sinema recently met with Chandler city officials, warning that neglecting local AI-focused data center projects could result in federal intervention. During a discussion about the proposed Price Road Innovation Campus, which includes a $2.5 billion AI data center, Sinema emphasized the importance of local control in shaping technological development. City officials are set to vote on the project on November 13, as community reactions balance economic growth with environmental concerns.
Chandler, Arizona – Former U.S. Senator Kyrsten Sinema warned Chandler city officials during a meeting last week that failing to support local AI-focused data centers could lead to a loss of control for the city. Sinema expressed concerns that the federal government might intervene if local development does not proceed. Her comments were made during a discussion on October 15 regarding a proposed data center and office campus project in the South Price Road Corridor.
The developer of the project, New York-based Active Infrastructure, is pushing back against the city staff’s objections that the project does not align with the area’s land-use vision. Sinema, who is now the president and CEO of the Arizona Business Roundtable, encouraged the planning and zoning commission to advance the proposal in light of technology needs for the anticipated “AI revolution”. She cited the AI Action Plan from the Trump Administration as an indicator that federal preemption for AI data centers is forthcoming.
The proposed Price Road Innovation Campus represents a potential $2.5 billion investment and includes an AI data center along with five additional office buildings. The 40-acre site is expected to attract tenants for the office spaces post-construction. City staff previously indicated that data centers could provide significantly fewer jobs compared to the high-value employment sectors the area targets.
Sinema noted that Chandler has a unique opportunity to shape the development of AI data centers before federal involvement takes over. Concerns from local residents include issues surrounding energy and water consumption by data centers. The construction timeline estimates about two years for the demolition of existing buildings and the establishment of the data center.
Supporters of the project claim it would transform Chandler into an AI hub, not just a collection of data centers. City officials plan to vote on the project’s rezoning request on November 13.
The Price Road Innovation Campus is envisioned as a major step forward for Chandler’s technological landscape, potentially setting the city at the forefront of AI development in the region. The proposal highlights the growing trend towards AI and technology-driven infrastructures as cities look to adapt to future demands.
Sinema’s warning regarding the potential loss of local control is significant in light of the increasing role of the federal government in regulating emerging technologies. As cities across the United States grapple with the complexities of integrating data centers into their urban plans, Chandler’s decisions may serve as a critical case study for how municipal officials choose to navigate these challenges effectively. Local community reactions continue to evolve, balancing the promise of economic development with the necessary caution regarding environmental impacts.
The upcoming decision from city officials on November 13 will set the course for Chandler’s technological development in the years to come, as stakeholders from various sectors await the outcome of the rezoning request. The implications of this project extend beyond immediate job creation, encompassing broader themes of innovation, sustainability, and competitive positioning in an increasingly digital economy.
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
- KTAR: Sinema Chandler AI Data Centers
- AZ Central: Controversial Proposed AI Data Center
- HPC Wire: Intel 18A Enters Production in Arizona
- Wikipedia: Artificial Intelligence
- Google Search: AI Data Centers
Author: STAFF HERE PHOENIX WRITER
The PHOENIX STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREPhoenix.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Phoenix, Maricopa County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as the Waste Management Phoenix Open, Cactus League Spring Training, and Arizona State Fair. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Greater Phoenix Chamber of Commerce and Visit Phoenix, plus leading businesses in technology and healthcare that power the local economy such as Intel and Banner Health. As part of the broader HERE network, including HERETucson.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Arizona's dynamic landscape.
