Data center planned for downtown Seattle in spite of looming moratorium
A new data center is planned for downtown Seattle, despite the City Council's recent committee vote in favor of a one-year moratorium on such projects. The Digital Realty project could proceed if permits are finalized before the full council votes on the moratorium on June 9, sparking debate among residents and council members about balancing technological growth with environmental concerns and urban planning.
A new six-story co-location data center is proposed for downtown Seattle at the former Bed Bath & Beyond site, currently an art gallery and music venue, requiring its demolition. The project is planned by Digital Realty, which also operates a data center in the nearby Westin Building Exchange. Public opinion is divided, with some residents like Paul Moore acknowledging the necessity of data centers in the "computer age," while others like Candice McGarvey emphasize the need for eco-friendly designs and efficient building combinations.
The development faces potential obstacles from the Seattle City Council. Its land use and sustainability committee recently voted unanimously in favor of a one-year moratorium on new data centers, citing concerns about noise pollution, e-waste, and power consumption. Committee chair Eddie Lin indicated that the moratorium is a temporary measure, with long-term permanent regulations for data centers being the ultimate goal. However, a city Department of Construction and Inspections spokesperson clarified that the proposed data center could still move forward if its paperwork and permits are secured before the moratorium is officially enacted, with the full council vote scheduled for June 9.