Michigan City leaders are applauding Google's acquisition of the Project Maize data center site on 70 acres that formerly housed the ANCO windshield-wiper plant.
Google confirmed the sale and ensured the community that environmental responsibility is a priority. It also promised to be a good neighbor by taking on the cost of infrastructure upgrades that support the project and to replenish more water than the facility uses.
“We understand this site has faced challenges in the past, and we are committed to being a collaborative and transparent partner as we move forward,” said Broderick Green, Google Data Center public affairs manager, in a press release. “We don’t just build data centers; we become part of the community. This includes paying for 100% of the cost of power for the site and any infrastructure needs driven by our operations.”
The building at 402 Royal Road will be transformed from a former brownfield site into the $832 million data center. The site has been empty for 15 years. Phoenix Investors based in Milwaukee has owned the site since 2022. The national commercial real estate firm focuses on revitalizing former manufacturing sites.
More than 500 construction workers will be needed to complete the project, Google reported.
Michigan City Mayor Angie Nelson Deuitch said the acquisition will help the city meet its economic development goals.
“We continue to progress toward a new level of prosperity with an eye to embracing innovative redevelopment projects,” she said in a press release. “By accepting the need for data centers in our tech-based culture and welcoming Google as a community partner, we are spotlighting Michigan City as a hub for digital infrastructure.”
In September 2025, the Michigan City Common Council approved several resolutions that supported a data center.
Just Transition Northwest Indiana launched a campaign against data centers in the Region. Opponents also have protested outside the site.
However, city officials say the collaboration will bring needed funds to the community.
“Collaborating with Google on the data center is infusing funds in our community for additional economic development, the creation of 30-plus high-skill jobs and support of programs and education rooted in technology,” said Clarence Hulse, Economic Development Corp. of Michigan City executive director.
Google has committed to $26.1 million in economic benefits to the city, including a $1 million payment to the EDCMC to support the city's economic development and $100,000 for infrastructure improvements by the Michigan City Sanitary District.
“Technology-based developments will continue to attract new companies in the industry to our community and indicate how our city is willing to tackle impactful projects that are pushing the boundaries of traditional redevelopment and innovative approaches to growth,” Hulse said.
