Cleveland lays out proposed guardrails for $11.3B Project River data center
Cleveland, TN, leaders have outlined proposed regulations, or "guardrails," for the $11.3 billion Project River data center development, addressing significant resident concerns. The proposed Planned Unit Development ordinance, PUD 77, includes specific requirements for setbacks, noise limits, on-site power and water generation, and various environmental studies. A final draft of the ordinance is expected, with a vote anticipated no earlier than October.
Cleveland, Tennessee, municipal leaders have unveiled a draft of proposed regulations, termed "guardrails," for the contentious $11.3 billion Project River data center development. This move comes in response to significant public concern from hundreds of Bradley County residents regarding the project's potential impacts on noise, water, electricity, traffic, and pollution. The proposed Planned Unit Development ordinance, PUD 77, outlines strict requirements, including a 500-foot setback for the data center from property lines, a 60-decibel noise limit, and the mandate for a closed-loop cooling system.
Furthermore, the ordinance stipulates that the development must generate 75% of its power and 90% of its process water on-site, with no direct utility connection to the Hiwassee River. It also demands a minimum of 20% green space, building height restrictions, and continuous noise monitoring. Prior to permit issuance, developers would need to complete numerous studies covering environmental impact, traffic, and hydrology. The proposal also addresses traffic concerns for the project's power operation by restricting log trucks to state highways and calling for "commercially reasonable efforts" to move at least half of the timber by non-truck methods. The city is also seeking a Community Benefit Agreement to support local schools and infrastructure. A finalized draft of PUD 77 is expected Friday, with a vote not anticipated before October.