As data centers draw increased attention across the country, the Utah Inland Port Authority is taking a measured and transparent approach to ensure any conversation about future development reflects Utah’s priorities: economic competitiveness, responsible growth, community health and protection of the state’s unique natural resources.
UIPA’s purpose is to strengthen the state’s transportation network and regional economies by supporting logistics, infrastructure and manufacturing growth in Utah, while protecting sensitive lands and the Great Salt Lake. UIPA will not risk the protection of those resources, or the integrity of the organization, by fast-tracking data center development.
During the 2026 legislative session, the Utah Legislature adopted HB 507, which was signed by the Governor and clearly outlines the state’s policy regarding data centers. UIPA will operate well within the parameters of that state policy.
The Authority fully adheres to Governor Cox’s Executive Order 2026-03, which outlines the state’s policy related to data-center support, including incentives and Regionally Significant Development zones as described in statute, including 17C-6, 63N-3a and 11-41.
UIPA is not providing financial incentives to data centers and is not actively recruiting data centers to its project areas. The Authority also supports and adheres to data center moratoriums enacted by local communities.
Land-use authority remains with local governments. UIPA does not zone property, approve land uses or determine which developments are allowed within project areas. Those decisions are made locally, through established public processes.
UIPA works in partnership with cities, counties and other stakeholders to ensure project area development reflects community priorities. Local support, public input and environmental review are built into UIPA’s process from the beginning, helping ensure growth is thoughtful, transparent and aligned with Utah’s long-term interests.
UIPA will not prioritize data-center development over Utah’s natural resources and will continue dedicating revenues to the protection and enhancement of the Great Salt Lake.
Understanding Our Process is Key
UIPA’s process includes several safeguards and investments designed to protect natural resources, including:
- Environmental review before project area creation. A Project Area Plan must include an environmental review, including consideration of natural, cultural and heritage resources.
- Project-specific review. Environmental impacts are reviewed based on the specific uses proposed by the community.
- Wetlands preservation investments. UIPA has contributed $5 million so far toward wetlands preservation around the Great Salt Lake Shoreline.
- Clean air investments. UIPA has partnered with the Utah Department of Environmental Quality on a $112.4 million grant partnership to support cleaner air around the Northwest Quadrant Project Area.
- Wetlands policy. UIPA has adopted a wetlands policy to help protect sensitive wetlands near project areas.
Local communities lead the process
Before UIPA can consider creating a new project area, the process must begin locally:
- A local government must hold a public meeting and formally invite UIPA to consider a project area through a resolution.
- That local public meeting must include an opportunity for public comment.
- UIPA strongly believes its board should not consider action unless the local government has demonstrated support.
- UIPA then holds an initial review meeting where the proposed Project Area Plan is presented and public comment is received. No action is taken at this meeting.
a. The proposed plan must be posted on UIPA’s website at least 10 days before the review meeting. - UIPA meets with stakeholders between meetings to hear concerns, answer questions and adjust the plan when appropriate.
- UIPA holds a subsequent public meeting where the plan is presented again, public comment is received and the board may consider approval.
While some have argued that speed is critical for certain economic development opportunities, UIPA has found that transparency has not cost the state economic opportunities. In fact, a clear and open process has helped build trust, reduce criticism and create stronger outcomes for communities.
Moving forward, UIPA will continue to coordinate with the Governor’s Office and our respective communities to ensure consistent messaging around economic development, natural resource protection, community engagement and Utah’s long-term competitiveness.
Bottom line
The purpose of UIPA is not to attract Data centers to the State, and any involvement will be determined by local communities. UIPA will continue to adhere to HB 507 as it relates to future data center development and major infrastructure projects. They should be evaluated carefully, but they should not be judged by outdated assumptions.
The right standard is simple: growth should pay its way, water use should be transparent, power should be planned and communities should see lasting public benefit without compromising environmental and human health.
Author: Kaitlin Felsted
Published: 06/25/26