Augusta puts a hold on data centers — except the one that’s riled up neighbors

The Augusta Commission enacted a 49-day moratorium on new data center developments following over two hours of public comment and discussion. The pause is intended to allow for public input and enable the city

planning and zoning department to finalize new zoning ordinances. However, the approved moratorium explicitly excludes the QTS data center project, located near the Haynes Station neighborhood in west Augusta, which has been the primary source of community controversy.

Residents, including Suzettra Walker, Chastanae Cherry, and Zakiya Mabery, expressed deep concerns at the commission meeting. They highlighted issues such as a lack of transparency and communication from city leaders and the developer, potential impacts on air quality, water resources, and energy consumption, and the need for independent oversight and enforceable measures for accountability. Many residents were surprised when groundwork began on the QTS site, revealing an expanded version of a previously approved data center project (Project Eisenhower) near their homes.

Opponents advocated for a longer, 12-month moratorium that would include the QTS project, stressing the need for the city to adopt clear regulations, complete necessary infrastructure and environmental assessments, and ensure public engagement. They called for stronger public-notice standards and legally binding agreements for infrastructure reinvestment across Augusta-Richmond County. Despite these calls, the QTS project remains exempt from the recently enacted 49-day pause, continuing to be a focal point of ongoing community efforts for stricter oversight.