Denton’s data center boom sparks debate over growth and resources

Denton, Texas, is at the center of a burgeoning AI data center industry, with significant projects like the Core Scientific and CoreWeave facility on Jim Christal Road undergoing expansion for advanced AI computing. The Denton City Council approved a $6 billion investment by Core Scientific and CoreWeave in 2024, followed by a $1.2 billion expansion announcement in February 2025. Core Scientific CEO Adam Sullivan noted this expansion would create one of North America's largest GPU supercomputers. In January, the City Council also approved a specific-use permit for QumulusAI to build a modular data center near Western Boulevard and Jim Christal Road, which will utilize a closed-loop cooling system to minimize water use. Despite these approvals, residents like James Macfadzean express concerns that the rapid pace of development is straining local resources, particularly energy and water, and may not fully account for long-term negative impacts. City Council member Brian Beck, running for mayor, acknowledges the economic opportunity but stresses the importance of meeting environmental standards. A recent national poll by Quinnipiac University indicated that 65% of Americans oppose AI data centers in their communities, primarily due to electricity costs and water consumption, echoing local sentiments. State leaders have also ordered studies on the impact of data centers on the electrical grid and water-stressed regions. Denton Municipal Electric spokesperson Stuart Birdseye stated that data center proposals often follow standard development procedures, allowing for public input, but residents like Hope Garcia, Hannah Stuchell, and Samm Bragg on Facebook have voiced feelings of being uninformed and worried about increased noise pollution, potential health impacts, and resource waste.