LETTER: Port has much to gain from new-generation data center

To Ozaukee Press:

As a longtime Port Washington resident and someone who is very familiar with data center construction, I understand the concerns being raised about the potential development of data centers in our community. Questions about environmental impact, noise and aesthetics are valid, and they deserve thorough answers. 

But I encourage us all to take a breath, keep an open mind and allow our city leaders to complete their due diligence before we jump to conclusions.

In the past, data centers relied heavily on air cooling, which involved circulating large volumes of air through rows of servers. But the industry has evolved. Today’s most advanced  data centers, especially those supporting AI applications, are adopting highly efficient liquid cooling technologies.

These systems, like direct-to-chip and immersion cooling, drastically reduce energy use and eliminate the need for loud fans. In fact, immersion-cooled data centers are not only quieter, they are also cleaner and more sustainable.

That means the image many have of noisy, power-hungry server farms no longer reflects today’s reality. The next generation of data centers is designed with efficiency and environmental stewardship in mind. These facilities are modern, discreet and designed to blend in with their surroundings.

There’s also a tremendous opportunity here. A well-managed data center could generate significant tax revenue that could be invested directly into our city to fund improvements like stabilizing the bluffs at Upper Lake Park, adding restrooms and amenities to our beaches and expanding parking to better accommodate residents and visitors alike.

Beyond infrastructure, these data center projects attract talented professionals and their families—people who will bring energy, innovation and investment to

Port Washington. I’ve worked with many in this field, and I can tell you they’re not just tech experts, they’re boaters, hikers, foodies and community-minded people-just like us. They’ll fall in love with the charm of our city, the way we celebrate Fish Day, and how we greet Santa with fireworks and cheers.

This isn’t about saying yes blindly. It’s about letting the process unfold and giving our local leaders the time and space to evaluate the potential benefits and challenges carefully. 

Let’s not let fear override possibility.

Let’s stay informed, engaged and open to what could be a truly positive step forward for Port Washington.

Andy Allen

Port Washington