Texarkana Residents Protest Data Center Development
Residents in Texarkana, Texas, are protesting proposed data center developments in Bowie County due to concerns about increased electricity and water bills, as well as traffic impacts. Protesters are organizing to contact local and state representatives and attend council meetings to voice their opposition.
The Texarkana Gazette reported on a protest against plans to build a digital data center in Bowie County, Texas. Residents gathered in downtown Texarkana on May 30, 2026, to share information, plan future actions, and raise awareness regarding their opposition to the project.
Protester Emilee Herrington articulated concerns that data centers would cause spikes in water and electricity bills and lead to increased traffic due to ongoing maintenance and construction. She expressed a feeling of not being heard by local authorities, prompting the group to strategize by contacting representatives and engaging with community members.
The group plans to attend every city council meeting to ensure their stance is recognized and represented. They also intend to reach out to state and federal legislative representatives, emphasizing that their job is to represent constituents who oppose the development. Protesters plan to demonstrate regularly through the summer.
Herrington urged community members to stand up for their shared future, highlighting fears that rising costs could force neighbors to move, thereby eroding the local community fabric.