Data center proposed in central Wisconsin

WISCONSIN RAPIDS – There is a proposed data center to be built in Wisconsin Rapids and a group of concerned citizens is calling on residents to speak out.
South Wood County Neighbors for Responsible Development is a group is addressing rising concerns about the potential long-term impacts the proposed development could have on the Wisconsin River and surrounding communities. Areas of concern include destruction to local natural resources and wildlife, with elevated risk for air quality, light and noise pollution.
“The Wisconsin River is the lifeblood of Wisconsin,” said Kaitlyn Federwitz, a spokesperson for South Wood County Neighbors for Responsible Development. “It connects freshwater resources across our state and supports the people, wildlife, and communities that depend on it.”
The group’s mission is to defend the Wisconsin River while advocating for greater transparency and accountability from decision makers. They believe that decisions of this scale should not happen behind closed doors and that the community deserves input before any project moves forward.
Data centers across Wisconsin and the greater US have recently raised public concerns about water usage, environmental exploitation, and secretive agreements without community transparency. South Wood County Neighbors for Responsible Development is currently asking residents of Wisconsin Rapids to take a stand for their rights.

Community members are encouraged to attend an informational meeting scheduled for April 29 at 6 p.m. at Wisconsin Rapids Area Middle School, 1921 27th Ave. S. The event will feature special guests Charlie Berens, Dr. Brittany Keyes, Prescott Balch, and Wisconsin Farmers Union.
The information meeting will help to inform and prepare community members before the Data Center Planning Commission Public Hearing planned for May 4, 2026 at 4 p.m. at Wisconsin Rapids City Hall, Council Chambers, 444 W. Grand Ave., Wisconsin Rapids.
“This is not about rejecting progress,” Federwitz added. “It is about responsible development for the good of the people. We believe the community deserves full transparent accountability and opportunity to voice their opinion before any permanent decisions are made.”
Residents can learn more at SaveRapids.com.