MICHIGAN CITY, Ind. — A massive redevelopment project is underway as developers plan to transform a former windshield wiper plant on Royal Road into a state-of-the-art data center, with an $830 million private investment on the table — and no local tax breaks requested.
Project Maize: A Major Economic Boost
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The project, known as Project Maize, is expected to create 30 permanent jobs by 2034, according to the Indiana Economic Development Corporation.
Phoenix Investors, a Milwaukee-based developer, purchased nearly 70 acres at the site in 2022 for $1.25 million. Renovations are already in progress, including:
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Raising the building’s roof from 16 to 28 feet
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Installing a new electrical substation
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Preparing infrastructure to attract data center operators
Although construction is moving forward, no official tenants have been announced yet.
Tax Incentives & Economic Impact
While Michigan City isn’t providing local tax breaks, Phoenix Investors has secured state tax incentives worth up to $41 million over 35 years, provided they meet investment goals.
The city expects significant returns from the project, including:
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$500,000 annually in economic impact taxes
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Additional property tax revenue
Local unions also anticipate job opportunities for electricians, construction crews, and other skilled workers during the build-out phase.
Environmental & Community Concerns
The data center will operate using a closed-loop water cooling system, and officials assure residents it won’t increase electricity rates. However, some neighbors have voiced concerns about noise, water consumption, and environmental impacts.
City utilities officials say the site’s water use is manageable, and ongoing monitoring will continue as construction progresses.
Next Steps
The Michigan City Council will hold a public meeting Tuesday night to discuss four resolutions tied to Project Maize and gather community feedback.
