Cedar Rapids neighbors raise concerns over southwest data center

Cedar Rapids officials confirmed plans for a third data center on the city's southwest side on July 8, 2026.

Nearby residents have voiced worries about increased traffic and prolonged construction, according to reporting from KCRG.

The property has been zoned for light industrial use since the early 2000s, a designation that predates current residents' moves to the area.

"We don’t like the idea of a lot more traffic," said Harold Moore, a nearby resident.

Mike Rogers, another resident, said he remains uncertain about the project. "I’m still not sure what to think about it. I know there will be some construction for quite a few years here and more traffic and I’m not thrilled about that part of it."

Mayor Tiffany O’Donnell stated that the project is not receiving city tax incentives. She noted that the project is expected to generate property tax revenue for the city.

"One of the reasons zoning exists is for that full transparency so people who might be considering moving there or even live there are aware of what is allowed," O’Donnell said.

The confirmation and resident reactions were first reported by KCRG on July 10, 2026. For Cedar Rapids and Linn County readers, the development sits on land long designated for industrial activity, which limits the city's leverage on new conditions while still promising added tax revenue without incentives.