Broadview area data center sees first phase of construction with roads, well work
Quantica Infrastructure has begun the first phase of construction on its large data center project in Yellowstone County, Montana, despite significant public opposition. Opponents are concerned about water usage and have pushed for interim zoning and a project moratorium, but county officials, advised by the county attorney, are resisting these measures due to potential legal risks. Quantica plans to tap into the deeper Madison Aquifer, which experts believe will not affect shallower local water sources.
Quantica Infrastructure has commenced the initial construction phase for its expansive data center facility in Yellowstone County, Montana, near the town of Broadview. The project, slated to be one of the largest globally, is currently undergoing road construction and well preparation.
However, the development has been met with considerable public resistance, with opponents actively engaging in county commission meetings to voice their disapproval. These groups have explored various legal avenues and are advocating for the county commissioners to implement interim zoning regulations and a temporary halt on the project for further assessment.
Yellowstone County Attorney Scott Twito has cautioned commissioners against adopting such measures, citing the potential for legal challenges and substantial financial penalties for county taxpayers. This stance contrasts with Missoula County, which enacted similar interim zoning in July.
Quantica asserts that the project's water demands will not deplete local residential or agricultural supplies, as it intends to draw from the Madison Aquifer, which is significantly deeper than the Eagle Aquifer used by the Broadview community. The company projects daily water usage of up to 150,000 gallons during construction and 20,000 gallons once operational, utilizing a closed-loop cooling system that, while water-efficient, requires more electricity. Hydrology expert Jon Reiten supports the view that drawing from the Madison Aquifer should not impact shallower wells, provided proper construction. However, Reiten notes the Madison Aquifer's warm, salty water may require costly reverse osmosis treatment and careful disposal of discharge.