By 1808Delaware
Sunbury is stepping into the future with the establishment of the Sunbury Business and Technology Park and the hoped-for arrival of a major Amazon facility. These details, presented as answers to FAQs and included in the City Administrator’s Report to Sunbury City Council at their meeting Wednesday night, highlight the project’s transformative potential.
Spanning approximately 1,200 acres of newly annexed land between State Route 37 and Vans Valley Road on the east side of the city, the park is poised to bring significant economic benefits to the area. With Amazon Web Services (AWS) announcing plans to develop a megaproject data center campus in the park, this development is set to transform the local economy while maintaining a balance between growth and community needs.
What follows is a synopsis of that Report.
Strategic Location and Purpose
The Sunbury Business and Technology Park was strategically established to diversify the city’s tax base and reduce dependency on residential taxes. This forward-thinking approach enables the city to maintain a high level of community services without increasing tax rates for residents. By creating a significant number of new job opportunities, the park benefits residents and strengthens the local economy.
Technology-based businesses, such as AWS, are a cornerstone of this vision. These enterprises bring high-wage job opportunities, invest heavily in capital assets, and have minimal impact on community services. Sunbury’s leadership sees this as a win-win for residents and public entities reliant on property tax revenues.
AWS Megaproject: What It Means for Sunbury
AWS’s commitment to developing a megaproject data center campus in the park represents a $2 billion investment in capital assets. This includes the creation of at least 50 full-time jobs with average annual salaries of $90,000. The project is expected to remain operational for at least 30 years, further solidifying Sunbury’s role as a hub for technology and innovation.
A megaproject, as defined by the State of Ohio, requires a fixed-asset investment of at least $1 billion and certification by the Ohio Department of Development. This certification allows projects like AWS’s data center to access enhanced economic benefits. However, construction on the data center campus is contingent upon the approval of a Development Agreement that outlines commitments for public infrastructure financing, securing power and water resources, and meeting other regulatory requirements.
Infrastructure and Zoning Details
To support the AWS project, several infrastructure enhancements are planned, including:
- Construction of a new sanitary pump station.
- Extension of sewer and water lines.
- Installation of a new water tank.
- Construction of at least one new roadway.
The city is also exploring options for reclaimed water to cool the data center, preserving local water resources.
The development will take place in Sunbury’s Limited Industrial Zoning District, established last year with strict standards to ensure high-quality design and construction. These standards include:
- A minimum building setback of 100 feet from neighboring residential or agricultural areas.
- A maximum building height of 85 feet, provided the setback is increased by 200 additional feet.
- Lot coverage capped at 75% to allow for landscaping, screening, and stormwater management.
Public input played a crucial role in shaping these zoning standards, with hearings held by the Planning and Zoning Commission and City Council.
Balancing Incentives and Community Benefits
To attract AWS, Sunbury offered a Community Reinvestment Area (CRA) property tax exemption of 87.5% for 15 years and 75% for another 15 years. This long-term incentive was pivotal in securing AWS’s commitment, as the company considered other locations in Indiana, Virginia, and Minnesota.
Despite the tax incentives, local schools and other public entities stand to benefit significantly. Schools will receive 12.5% of taxes on increased property values during the first 15 years and 25% during the following 15 years. After 30 years, schools will collect the full benefit of property taxes from the site. Other beneficiaries include the BST&G Fire District, library services, Preservation Parks, the Board of Developmental Disabilities, and 9-1-1 emergency communications.
Additionally, the increased property valuation as land transitions from agricultural to industrial use will provide immediate financial benefits to schools, even though the project will not contribute to student population growth.
Preparing for Construction and Local Engagement
While AWS has announced its plans, the company has yet to submit a site plan for city review. Once submitted, the plan will undergo a thorough review by city staff and the Sunbury Planning and Zoning Commission to ensure compliance with zoning standards.
Traffic impact from the project is expected to be minimal, as data centers generate little traffic. However, the city will collaborate with AWS to minimize any construction-related disruptions and ensure smooth integration with existing infrastructure.
Local businesses are encouraged to monitor bid solicitations related to the project, as AWS will decide which contractors and service providers to engage. This presents an opportunity for local enterprises to play a role in the development.
A New Era for Sunbury
The Sunbury Business and Technology Park represents a monumental step forward for the city, blending economic development with thoughtful community planning. AWS’s investment will not only transform the landscape but also create lasting economic benefits for residents and public services. With careful planning, collaboration, and a commitment to sustainable growth, Sunbury is poised to become a beacon for technology and innovation in Ohio.
Source: City of Sunbury
