QTS pushes back on Bessemer request to pause data center work, postpones meeting with mayor
Construction continues on QTS's controversial data center project in Bessemer despite city leaders asking the company to pause work. QTS says it has the necessary permits, paid a $3.2 million excavation fee and is complying with legal requirements, while Mayor Louise Alexander reviews the project and city concerns about environmental impacts, water use and power consumption.
Construction on QTS's data center project in Bessemer continued after city leaders requested a pause while they review the development and its permits. Excavation and site-clearing work was visible, and QTS said it has authorization to proceed, including permits associated with a $3.2 million excavation fee.
Mayor Louise Alexander had planned to meet with QTS representatives to discuss the city's concerns, but the meeting was postponed after the company received a letter from the city. Alexander said she has not reached a conclusion on the project and is still reviewing documents connected to its approval, including materials from former Mayor Kenneth Gulley. Residents have raised concerns about the data center's potential effects on the environment, water resources and electricity usage. QTS said the site is being developed in compliance with its permits and that it has done nothing legally wrong.