Environmental group raises concerns about possible data center plans in Rocky Mount

Rocky Mount, North Carolina officials are advancing plans to rezone over 170 acres of city-owned land to heavy industrial, sparking speculation about a massive hyperscale data center development. Although city officials have not named a specific tenant, the environmental advocacy group Sound Rivers has expressed strong concerns, citing the project's technical requirements as indicative of a data center. Heather Deck, Executive Director of Sound Rivers, highlighted potential strain on local water resources, particularly the Tar River and the city's water capacity, given that three hyperscale data centers are reportedly proposed for the region. These concerns are amplified by ongoing drought conditions and water restrictions across several North Carolina communities. Residents will have the opportunity to voice their concerns at a public hearing during the Rocky Mount City Council meeting on Monday, May 11th, at 7 p.m.