Elkhart officials are studying how the city should regulate data centers and other similar industrial developments while a one-year moratorium on new projects remains in effect.

The city has identified two potential areas for future development: the Tech Park tax increment financing district and the Aeroplex district near the Elkhart Municipal Airport.

Elkhart is working with nonprofit organization enFocus to review research, gather public input and help develop a planning process.

The proposed contract is valued at 45-thousand dollars, with the cost split between the two districts.

City officials estimate the study will take six to eight months.

The information gathered will help determine what zoning rules may be needed and whether the two areas are suitable for data centers.

The study will continue during the moratorium, giving the city time to evaluate potential impacts before deciding on future regulations.