South Wood County Neighbors for Responsible Development urges community to oppose proposed Wisconsin Rapids data center

WISCONSIN RAPIDS, Wis. (WFHR / WIRI) – South Wood County Neighbors for Responsible Development is a concerned group of local citizens. They’re calling on residents to speak out against a proposed Wisconsin Rapids data center and demand greater transparency, public accountability, and environmental review before any decisions are made.

According to a press release, the group is raising concerns about the potential long-term impacts the proposed development could have on the Wisconsin River. This includes the surrounding communities, local natural resources, air quality, noise levels, and wildlife.

The press release from South Wood County Neighbors for Responsible Development says many of the consequences remain unknown, with “little transparency and even less accountability.” “The Wisconsin River is the lifeblood of Wisconsin,” said Kaitlyn Federwitz. She’s a spokesperson for South Wood County Neighbors for Responsible Development. “It connects freshwater resources across our state and supports the people, wildlife, and communities that depend on it. Decisions of this scale should not happen behind closed doors. Our community deserves clear answers before any project moves forward.”

Defending the Wisconsin River

The group’s mission is to defend the Wisconsin River and the communities it sustains. They’ll do this through awareness, advocacy, and collective action that protects people, water, land, air, and wildlife. Its vision is a future where the Wisconsin River is safeguarded from harmful development, natural resources are preserved with accountability, and future generations inherit a healthy, thriving environment.

Data centers have come under increased scrutiny across Wisconsin and the country. This is due to concerns about water usage, energy demand, noise and light pollution, infrastructure strain, and transparency in local approval processes. The Environmental and Energy Study Institute has
reported that large data centers can consume up to 5 million gallons of water per day, depending on size and cooling methods.

South Wood County Neighbors for Responsible Development

SWCNRD is encouraging residents to attend upcoming community meetings, ask questions, sign the petition, and make their voices heard before the council on a possible Wisconsin Rapids Data Center. The public hearing is May 4th.

An informational meeting is scheduled for April 29th, 2026 at 6 p.m. It will be held at Wisconsin Rapids Area Middle School, 1921 27th Ave. South and will feature special guests Charlie Berens, Dr. Brittany Keyes, Prescott Balch, and Wisconsin Farmers Union.

The city hearing is scheduled for May 4, 2026 at 4 p.m. It will be at the Wisconsin Rapids City Hall, Council Chambers, 444 W. Grand Avenue.

Residents can learn more, sign the petition, and join the movement at SaveRapids.com.