Tennessee is home to dozens of data centers, why a new one faces pushback
A proposed DC BLOX data center next to the Nashville Zoo in South Nashville is facing significant opposition from the zoo, local officials, and the community. The zoo has launched an online petition, gaining nearly 150,000 signatures, citing concerns over noise, water usage, and potential negative impacts on animal well-being and visitors. DC BLOX states the facility would not be an AI hub, plans to use waterless cooling, and commits to covering infrastructure and electricity costs.
A proposed 69,220-square-foot data center by Georgia-based company DC BLOX at 648 Grassmere Park in South Nashville is encountering strong opposition, primarily from the adjacent Nashville Zoo and a broad community coalition. The Nashville Zoo launched an online petition against the development, which has garnered nearly 150,000 signatures as of June 5. The zoo, supported by Nashville City Council, Metro Nashville Public School Board, Mayor Freddie O'Connell, and Vice Mayor Angie Henderson, expressed vehement opposition, citing concerns about noise, water quality, lighting, and the long-term impact on animal habitats, 1.4 million visitors, and surrounding neighborhoods.
DC BLOX, a digital infrastructure company, stated the facility would provide "much-needed digital infrastructure" and represent a "substantial investment." The company denied claims of it being an AI hub that strains local resources and committed to using closed-loop or waterless cooling systems to reduce water use. They also pledged to pay for all power used and any necessary new energy infrastructure, along with maintaining acceptable noise levels.
The article also provides broader context on data center growth in Tennessee, noting 60 data centers across 10 markets, with Nashville having 25. Major tech companies like Meta, Lumen, Flexential, Google, and xAI operate facilities in the state. Data center demand is projected to double by 2030, according to the Tennessee Valley Authority (TVA). In response to concerns about rising utility rates and environmental impacts, the Tennessee legislature passed HB1847, requiring data center developers to cover infrastructure and electricity costs, preventing utility companies from passing these expenses onto residents.