Colorado Springs Community-First Data Center Standards

Colorado Springs faces important decisions about the growth of artificial intelligence and data center development, including how these projects could affect our economy, infrastructure, natural resources, and quality of life. As Mayor, my responsibility is not to champion or oppose an industry. It is to protect the long-term interests of Colorado Springs and its residents.

At the July 23 Planning Commission hearing on Project Taurus, we heard those concerns clearly. Residents raised questions about noise and neighborhood impacts, water and electricity use, utility rates and infrastructure, environmental and wildlife impacts, air quality and emissions, and the location of these facilities near homes and open spaces. We also heard a clear call for greater transparency, enforceable standards, and confidence that the benefits of these projects justify their impacts.

We listened. And we are responding.

The COS Community-First Data Center Standards establish six clear standards to protect our community and guide future data center development.

Data centers will not be approved by default. Every proposed large-load project must demonstrate that it can meet rigorous standards designed to protect neighborhoods, safeguard our natural resources, preserve reliable and affordable utilities, and ensure that private development-not taxpayers or existing utility customers-pays the costs it creates.