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The Village of Sparta, Kent County, MI, adopted new zoning regulations on December 15 to govern potential data center developments. While there is currently no formal proposal, village officials aim to establish clear standards in response to rising interest in data centers.

The new regulations require any future data center proposals to meet stricter criteria than those applicable to general warehouses. The 125-acre Sparta Rodeo Grounds has been identified as a potential site, with a developer showing interest in the area.

In addition, Grand Rapids city commissioner Marshall Kilgore is advocating for a regulatory framework for data centers, responding to community concerns. Franklin Partners aims to build a data center on a 237-acre site in Lowell Township, while Microsoft seeks to establish one in Gaines Township. Both projects are awaiting rezoning approvals.