Microsoft considers data center as it buys 316-acre Gaines Township property
Posted By: WoodTV on October 21, 2024. For more information, please click here to read the source article.
Microsoft is eyeing West Michigan for a potential new data center.
Microsoft has purchased property in Gaines Township from Steelcase, Steelcase confirmed to News 8. According to property records, Microsoft bought the land at 4450 76th Street back in August for $45.3 million.
The company bought the property for a potential data center, it said in a statement to News 8.
“This 316-acre site was identified in collaboration with The Right Place as part of our ongoing search for development opportunities in the Michigan market,” a Microsoft spokesperson said in the statement. “While project plans, capital investment, and potential employee numbers are yet to be finalized, we will provide updates as information becomes available.”
Regional economic development agency The Right Place, Inc. said it was pleased to help Microsoft asses the property for the potential data center.
“The opportunity ahead with Microsoft fits into our 10-year tech strategy to develop the Greater Grand Rapids region into a leading tech hub in the Midwest,” The Right Place President and CEO Randy Thelen said in a statement to News 8. “With one of the leading tech companies in the world taking notice, we’re well on our way there.”
Steelcase in a statement said the sale is part of its “multi-year strategy to divest excess land in the West Michigan market.”
Dan Wells, community development director of the township’s planning and zoning department, told Crain’s Grand Rapids Business, which first reported on the sale, that Microsoft hasn’t met with township leaders or shared any potential development plans.
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