TerraWatt Receives Alton Feedback Before Finalizing Data Center Plans
A proposed redevelopment of the former Alton Steel mill drew questions about cooling systems and environmental impacts as TerraWatt sought feedback before finalizing plans.
ALTON — Residents questioned TerraWatt representatives about water use and environmental impacts Tuesday night, Oct. 27, 2026, as the company outlined plans to replace the former Alton Steel mill with a data center.
The Oct. 27, 2026, open house at the Wedge Building, 620 E. Broadway in Alton, gave residents a chance to review the proposed Riverbend Technology Center and provide feedback before the developer finalizes plans.
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TerraWatt employees staffed informational displays in the first-floor lobby and answered questions about construction, jobs, economic impact, water use, noise and much more. Alton Police officers provided security for the event. Company employees controlled the flow of visitors through the crowded event inside and outside the Wedge Building.
The proposed center would occupy the former steel mill property on Cut Street, where steel was made for more than a century before the last mill closed in January 2026. TerraWatt would demolish the mill buildings, pay for cleanup and construct the data center. The Alton Steel plant is owned by John Simmons of Simmons Hanly Conroy LLP.
According to TerraWatt company signage, the first phase would be a 200-megawatt block on parcels where the furnaces and rolling mill now stand.
“We believe in responsible development, and we wanted to hear from the people of Alton before plans are settled,” TerraWatt said in a statement before the Alton event.
Ciara Taylor of Alton said she was proud of the conversations at the meeting and how they reflected concerns about community well-being.
“It has been so powerful to see so many of our neighbors to come out tonight. It has been heartening to have conversations with folks who are not just against the data center but in favor of the health, well-being, and sanity of our community,” Taylor said.
David Lambiaso, TerraWatt’s co-founder, spoke with visitors at a display explaining the facility’s proposed water use.
TerraWatt said the facility would connect to Illinois American Water and that the company would pay for its own connection.
Residents sought more information about the project’s potential effects.
“I want a way for we the people to see the specifics of the impact this will cause if they do an Environmental Impact Study. I want to see that report,” community member Tyler Hance said.
Crystal Stevens voiced opposition over environmental concerns.
“I’m speaking out against data centers because of the environmental degradation and possible effects this will have on our ecosystem," she said. "The riparian ecosystem is already facing irreparable damage, specifically along the Mississippi River; this could have long-term impacts,” Stevens said.
Cecilia Dvorak, CEO of Steadfast City Economic & Community Partners, who helped coordinate the Tuesday event, stated that feedback gathered at the meeting was very important and would help shape TerraWatt's responses to its proposal.
Riverbender.com’s Grace Schwarte contributed to this story. Ryan Schlueter and Grace Schwarte photos are included.
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