Robin Lubbock
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Robin Lubbock/WBUR
Why New England doesn't have large AI data centers, and what the region is doing to prepare for them
In much of the country, the AI boom is driving the construction of hyperscale data centers. Not so much in New England. But change is coming. Here's how some in the region are preparing.
Ryan Caron King
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Connecticut Public
Justin Sullivan
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Research on past recessions suggests downturns can accelerate automation. That raises the specter of a double whammy for workers. -
Brown University researcher John Papay discusses stagnant student performance, classroom instruction and challenges facing Providence schools -
Towns and cities across the region are using tools of local control to slow or stop data center development within their borders. -
Naugatuck resident Scott Dyer was arrested by the FBI for allegedly threatening to kill various members of the Republican Party, including at least one unnamed public official. -
Can a cat's coat color impact its chances of getting adopted? Connecticut animal shelter officials share their thoughts. -
Across New England, data center opponents say they don’t trust the artificial intelligence industry -
The week of Oct. 19, 2026, New England News Collaborative stations will explore some of the reasons why the AI data center boom hasn't reached New England — at least not yet— in a special series called Awaiting Data. -
The Sunrise Movement identified the protester as a Bowdoin College student and said he's part of an effort to confront politicians over climate change. The protestor posed as a journalist to get into the ticketed event.
Why there’s no AI data center boom in New England (yet)
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