Johnson City Releases Data Center Survey Results
Johnson City, Tennessee, released survey results showing residents are primarily concerned about environmental impacts, noise pollution, and proximity to residential areas regarding data center development. Over 5,000 residents expressed extreme concern, leading to strong support for restrictions and stronger noise standards. The city is using this feedback, along with a noise study, to update zoning regulations and has a moratorium in place until December 2026.
Johnson City, Tennessee, has released the results of a public survey regarding local data center development, revealing significant community concerns. Approximately 6,000 residents participated, with 5,500 identifying environmental impacts—including water usage and heat offput—as their top concern. Noise from mechanical equipment and proximity to residential areas were also major issues, each selected by around 4,000 respondents.
The survey indicated that over 5,000 residents are 'Extremely Concerned' about the general presence of data centers. A strong majority supported the city implementing restrictions on data center locations, increasing setbacks from residential areas, and enforcing stricter noise standards, as well as limiting generator testing hours.
According to Johnson City planning manager Whitney Hodges, these survey results, along with a forthcoming noise and vibration study, will inform updates to the city's zoning regulations. The city has a temporary moratorium on data center construction in effect until December 2026 to allow time for these new regulations to be finalized. Officials plan to make all pre-development and environmental impact studies public if the zoning revisions pass, alongside yearly reviews with the city.