Collins secures funding for African American-led data center development

State Senator Lakesia Collins Secures $3.4 Million for African American-Led Data Center Development in Illinois

Introduction

State Senator Lakesia Collins has successfully obtained $3.4 million in funding for the construction of the first African American-led data center development in Illinois. This groundbreaking project, known as IMD1, will be located in the Illinois Medical District and will not only enhance data security within the state but also create valuable opportunities for local youth to engage with technology and computing.

Securing Illinois’ Data Locally

The IMD1 project holds immense potential for the 5th District community, as emphasized by Senator Collins (D-Chicago). By keeping Illinois’ technology data within the state, rather than outsourcing it to other states or countries, the project aims to generate millions in tax revenue that can be reinvested to support Black and Brown neighborhoods, businesses, and youth.

Project Details

The IMD1 data center project will encompass a five-story, 184,700-square-foot facility, situated on a two-acre site at 14th and Damen in Chicago’s Illinois Medical District. The initial phase of the project will involve LEED-certified engineering plans, electrical upgrades, equipment purchases, sewer and site improvements, as well as scholarships and training programs for local youth to partake in technology-related activities and secure future employment opportunities at data centers. The funding for this project is included in the state’s Fiscal Year 2025 Rebuild Illinois capital plan.

Supporting Data Centers in Illinois

In addition to the IMD1 project, Senator Collins has introduced Senate Bill 3939, which aims to support data centers in Illinois and create job opportunities in underserved areas through the implementation of the Keep Illinois Data in Illinois Tax Credit. This measure seeks to assist minority business owners in developing storage facilities, as data centers have proven to be highly beneficial economic investments for municipalities.

Appreciation for Senator Collins

Craig Huffman, the African American entrepreneur and developer of the IMD1 project from Metro Edge Development Partners, expressed gratitude towards Senator Collins for her unwavering efforts. Huffman acknowledged the positive impact this project will have on the West Side of Chicago, highlighting the creation of administrative, union construction, and operational jobs. Additionally, the construction of these buildings will inject millions of dollars into local economies, while simultaneously alleviating the strain on resources such as schools and other city services. By retaining Illinois’ data within the state, there is an opportunity to enhance its financial standing, cultivate a tech-savvy workforce, and inspire future generations.

Positive Impact of Data Center Projects

A report commissioned in February 2023 by the Chicagoland Chamber of Commerce revealed that the 13 data center projects approved in the Chicago area since 2020 have resulted in the creation of over 8,000 jobs for construction workers and have generated $4.2 billion of direct investment in Chicago-area communities.

Commitment to Diverse Communities

Senator Collins remains dedicated to collaborating with advocates to support data centers in diverse communities throughout Illinois, ensuring that the benefits of these projects are accessible to all.

SDGs, Targets, and Indicators

1. Which SDGs are addressed or connected to the issues highlighted in the article?

The SDGs addressed or connected to the issues highlighted in the article are:

• SDG 9: Industry, Innovation, and Infrastructure
• SDG 4: Quality Education
• SDG 8: Decent Work and Economic Growth
• SDG 11: Sustainable Cities and Communities
• SDG 17: Partnerships for the Goals

2. What specific targets under those SDGs can be identified based on the article’s content?

The specific targets under the identified SDGs are:

• SDG 9.1: Develop quality, reliable, sustainable, and resilient infrastructure
• SDG 4.4: Increase the number of youth and adults who have relevant skills
• SDG 8.3: Promote development-oriented policies that support productive activities, decent job creation, entrepreneurship, creativity, and innovation
• SDG 11.3: Enhance inclusive and sustainable urbanization and capacity for participatory, integrated, and sustainable human settlement planning and management
• SDG 17.17: Encourage and promote effective public, public-private, and civil society partnerships

3. Are there any indicators mentioned or implied in the article that can be used to measure progress towards the identified targets?

Yes, there are indicators mentioned or implied in the article that can be used to measure progress towards the identified targets. These indicators include:

• Construction of the first African American-led data center development in Illinois
• LEED-certified engineering plans, electrical upgrades, and equipment purchases
• Sewer and site improvements
• Scholarships and training programs for local youth to participate in technology
• Creation of administrative, union construction, and operational jobs through data center projects
• Development of storage facilities by minority business owners
• Alleviation of traditional burdens on resources like schools and other city services through data center projects
• Collaboration between State Senator Lakesia Collins and African American entrepreneur Craig Huffman to develop the data center project

4. Table: SDGs, Targets, and Indicators

Source: illinoissenatedemocrats.com