New data center planned for Glendale spark concerns among residents

The Glendale City Council, led by the mayor, has unanimously approved a pre-annexation development agreement for Project Baccara, a new data center initiative featuring two buildings. The developer, Takanock, asserts the facilities will store critical information and contribute to job creation and tax revenue for schools. According to the City of Surprise, the data centers will be powered by 700 megawatts of natural gas generators, supplying both the project and the regional grid. However, the project faces strong opposition from community members, including the Project Baccara Opposition Coalition. Residents like Lexsiri Coronado, Beth, and Dave Krause voiced concerns about negative impacts on the local community, specifically citing noise pollution from the 24/7 operations and potential health risks from emissions. Hillary Weber, a Surprise resident, claimed the project would release "microplastics into the air." Luke Air Force Base officials also communicated concerns in a letter to the Maricopa County Planning and Development Department in March, noting the project's incompatibility with high noise and accident potential zones unless specific conditions are met, such as ensuring pilot visibility and preventing aircraft interference. Takanock maintains the project is compatible, a sentiment echoed by Glendale Ocotillo Councilmember Leandro Baldenegro. Glendale Cactus District Councilmember Lupe Conchas raised health concerns like asthma and birth defects. Despite developer claims of minimal environmental impact, the Maricopa County Board of Supervisors is scheduled to review additional aspects of the project, including necessary permits, on May 6. Construction is slated to begin later this year, with the first data center operational by 2028 and the second by 2030.