LYON TWP. (WWJ) -- Residents in Lyon Township are expected to turn out in full force Monday evening for a Planning Commission meeting at the township offices.
They're speaking out against a controversial hyperscale data center proposal.
WWJ's Charlie Langton reports California-based developer Verrus is seeking final approval for "Project Flex," a massive 1.8-million-square-foot facility proposed on a site off Milford Road, just south of Grand River Avenue.
While the property itself currently sits largely undeveloped, local opposition has grown rapidly due to its proximity to established neighborhoods and public facilities. The site is located just streets away from several residential subdivisions and an elementary school. Opposition signs against the data center have become a common sight across the township, and the controversy has even sparked recall efforts against local board members.
Opponents living in the area have voiced several major quality-of-life and environmental concerns regarding the proposed facility:
- Noise and Light Pollution: Residents fear constant noise from operations as well as industrial site lighting.
- Resource Strain: Community members are concerned about the cooling systems required for a facility of this size, which could draw heavily on local water resources.
- Proximity to Neighborhoods: Residents object to placing a large-scale industrial operation so close to family housing and a nearby school.
At the same time, not all local residents are opposed to the build.
Proponents argue the project will bring new jobs to the area and support critical infrastructure needs for growing data demands. Additionally, representatives from Verrus have stated they will address community concerns by utilizing systems designed to mitigate noise, manage lighting, and handle cooling requirements responsibly.
The development process has faced significant delays over the past year.
Although Lyon Township authorities originally granted conditional approval for the data center back in September 2025, final approval was never completed. The resulting delay and ongoing pushback have led to heightened tensions between township leadership, residents, and the developer.
The planning commission meeting, set for 6 p.m. on Sept. 14, was expected to draw heavy public attendance as residents share their thoughts on the project.
