Hillsboro, OR. — The City of Hillsboro is continuing its review of data center development as the number of projects in the city grows and community interest increases.
City officials announced a special City Council work session on June 9 to continue discussions that began during a June 2 council work session. The meeting will focus on data centers and their role in Hillsboro’s economy, infrastructure, and future growth. While public comment will not be accepted during the work session, residents will have opportunities to provide input during the regular City Council meeting scheduled for June 16.
According to updated information released by the city, Hillsboro had 18 data center sites either completed or under construction as of March 2026. Since then, three additional projects have submitted development applications, bringing the total to 21 sites that are either operating, under construction, or in the permitting process.
The city reports that 16 completed sites occupy approximately 346 acres, while five sites currently under construction or in permitting account for another 124 acres. Combined, the 21 sites cover about 470 acres, representing roughly 8% of the North Hillsboro Industrial Area. Officials also identified five additional potential data center sites totaling approximately 177 acres that have not yet entered the permitting process.
City officials emphasized the growing demand for data processing and storage services. They cited estimates that consumers and businesses will generate more data in the next five years than was created during the previous decade. The city also noted that the average U.S. household now has approximately 22 internet-connected devices and monthly household internet usage has increased from about 150 gigabytes in 2018 to more than 750 gigabytes in 2025.
Hillsboro officials describe data centers as critical infrastructure supporting industries such as advanced manufacturing, computer electronics, biotechnology, healthcare, transportation, financial technology, and education. The city cited a 2025 analysis indicating that approximately 80% of Hillsboro’s data center capacity supports technology industries and development, while the remainder serves cloud computing and telecommunications functions.
Data centers are allowed in certain industrial zones within Hillsboro but are restricted or prohibited in others. Most proposals require a Type II land use review process, including public notice, an administrative decision, and opportunities for appeal. New facilities must also obtain building and utility permits before construction can proceed.
The city has created a dedicated information page to answer questions about data center development and says it will continue updating the site as new information becomes available.
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