Infrastructure
Rural Wisconsin has become a hotspot for data centers. State’s unique tax instrument explains why
Concerns over transparency, tax policy, and data centers’ utility usage drive many rural residents to oppose planned developments.
Bill to provide tax breaks for data centers reintroduced by Colorado lawmakers
The bill would offer a 100% sales and use tax exemption for qualified data centers for at least 20 years.
Wyoming County approves construction of what could become the largest data center in US
The project could eventually use the same amount of electricity as produced by 10 nuclear power plants, boosting Wyoming’s energy industry while challenging efforts to limit emissions and stressing water supplies.
Data will be key to lead pipe removal efforts, nonprofit says
States have about a year to confirm their plans to remove lead service lines with the federal government. Preparing data now could help officials draw such plans more efficiently.
South Dakota looks to space for final stretch of high-speed internet access initiative
The state will soon receive $72 million in federal funds to support satellite internet for more than 2,000 locations in need of broadband.
States continue to explore solutions to federal rule changes for public benefit programs
States must consider new data sources and approaches to ensuring their benefit systems are on track to comply with impending changes to the Medicaid and SNAP program, one expert says.
New Jersey lawmakers OK plan to charge data centers for spiking electric costs
Data centers, which are driving higher electric costs in New Jersey, would face new tariffs under a plan legislators advanced Thursday.
Data center ‘gold rush’ pits local officials’ hunt for new revenue against residents’ concerns
Without state regulations to guide them, Georgia counties are taking vastly different approaches to managing the surge in data center proposals.
In 2026, more data center regulations could be coming in Maryland
It’s likely that large scale data centers, which have a large presence in neighboring Virginia, will make their way to Maryland in greater numbers in the years ahead.
Frustrations with data center projects bubble over at Michigan Capitol
Attorney General Dana Nessel and lawmakers call for scrutiny of DTE contracts, an end to tax breaks and stronger protections for local communities.
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Watchdog for electric grid in Ohio, other states wants a pause on data centers
There are more than 200 data centers in Ohio already, and American Electric Power has claimed 30 gigawatts-worth of proposed data center projects want to connect to the grid.
North Dakota on track to be first in nation with 100% broadband internet access
North Dakota is on schedule to have high-speed internet access in 100% of the state by 2028 thanks to recently approved federal funding.
How government leaders can balance the pros and cons of data center development
Policy and partnerships with tech companies can give state and local leaders a lever to ensure data centers are developed responsibly and sustainable, experts said during a recent webinar.
Colorado town strives to become an ‘agentic smart city’
Vail has implemented a smart city platform that municipal leaders hope will improve government operations and boost customer experience.
Raleigh turns to a digital twin to improve city safety and planning
The North Carolina city is leveraging digital twin technology to help inform traffic management and city planning decisions.
Philadelphia turns to virtual calls to optimize building inspections
Through the camera lens of a mobile device, city staff can evaluate building conditions more closely and efficiently, one official says.
Boston invests in curb management tech to improve resident satisfaction
A new digital payment infrastructure for curb management is helping the city better meet residents’ needs.
How centralized design systems help build trust in digital services
A new resource from the Beeck Center highlights how states can improve online experiences for residents by creating a standard design system for agencies to follow.
Utilities and telecoms turn to Washington lawmakers for help as copper wire theft surges
Legislators are looking at tougher penalties and new requirements for scrapyards.
Last of unconnected South Carolinians could come online with ‘anchor leg’ plan for broadband
South Carolina needs just $41.4 million of its federal share to finish, according to the Broadband Office. What becomes of the remaining $510 million is unknown.
