Washington County Resident Plans to Leave Wisconsin Over $8 Billion Port Washington Data Center Project

PORT WASHINGTON, WISCONSIN – A Washington County woman says she plans to move out of Wisconsin following the approval of an $8 billion artificial intelligence data center complex in nearby Port Washington, citing fears about environmental risks and community impact.

Resident Voices Concern Over Groundwater and Growth

Peyton Sweeney, who lives just over the county line in Washington County, told TMJ4 News that she and her husband originally bought their home to raise a family — but those plans changed once the massive development was approved.

“It’s very surprising to me that there’s this acceptance of taking what these data centers say as true when we have, in real time, examples of the failure of those promises,” Sweeney said.

She added that the project’s lack of a formal environmental impact statement raises major concerns.

“They’re telling me they’re not going to pollute the underground limestone rivers that feed my well, but they’re not doing the testing to prove it,” she said.

Sweeney, who holds a degree in environmental studies and works as an AI coach, said she understands the importance of emerging technology but believes the project was rushed.

“There has to be a better balance between innovation and environmental protection,” she added.

City Leaders Defend Project’s Economic Benefits

The Port Washington Common Council recently approved the project, expected to bring major infrastructure upgrades, including new power lines and utility construction that will temporarily close part of County Highway LL.

The development has divided residents — with some worried about power line placement and environmental risks, while others, including local labor unions, welcome the job creation and tax revenue.

Port Washington Mayor Ted Neitzke said the city is already seeing increased housing demand and believes the project will broaden the local tax base.

“The significant economic impact of the data center project will be felt throughout our region,” Neitzke said. “Right now, 80% of the city’s budget falls on residential taxpayers. Our goal is to decrease that burden over time.”

He added that the city has no role in deciding power line routes, but has asked utilities like We Energies and American Transmission Co. to consider community feedback when designing new infrastructure.

Looking Ahead

Construction for the project’s utility groundwork is expected to begin this week, marking the first visible phase of what could become one of the largest AI data centers in the Midwest.

Still, residents like Sweeney say the project represents a turning point for their community — and not one they’re comfortable staying for.

“This isn’t what we envisioned when we moved here,” she said. “We want to live somewhere where we can trust that our water and our peace of mind aren’t compromised.”

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