Chicago Mayor Brandon Johnson recently signed an executive order calling for more regulations and reviews of new data center projects.

The move established a set of regulatory safeguards as part of Chicago’s approach to data center development while expanding protections for clean air, clean water, and affordable energy. Johnson’s executive order also created a new task force to develop long-term strategies for future projects, and he is encouraging the city council to enact a temporary moratorium on new projects while additional guidelines are finalized.

Chicago currently has 39 data centers of various sizes, and the region remains one of the largest data center markets in the country. “We are open to innovation and investment, but it must be done responsibly, transparently, and in partnership with the people most affected,” said Mayor Johnson. “This Executive Order ensures we are prepared to set strong standards that protect our residents first while still allowing for thoughtful, sustainable growth in a safer, more affordable Chicago.”

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