Controversial AI data center breaks ground in Independence

Nebius has commenced construction on its controversial 400-acre AI data center campus in eastern Independence, Missouri. The project, expected to be the company's largest U.S. facility at 1.2 GW, broke ground on Tuesday near Little Blue Parkway. Nebius Board Chairman John Boynton emphasized the company's long-term commitment to the community, projecting over 1,000 jobs during construction and 130 permanent high-tech positions, along with $650 million in tax payments to local jurisdictions over two decades. Missouri Governor Mike Kehoe also voiced strong support, highlighting the investment's role in strengthening the state's digital infrastructure leadership and creating jobs. However, the groundbreaking was met with protests from local residents led by Rachel Gonzalez and the group "Stop the AI Data Center in Independence." Demonstrators gathered off North Bly Road, expressing frustrations through chants and signs. Their primary concerns include the data center's potential negative environmental impacts, massive energy demands, strain on water supply, and the tax incentives provided to the large corporation. In a statement, Gonzalez criticized the City of Independence for celebrating the project despite "growing public concern" and thousands of residents signing petitions and attending meetings to demand transparency. She stated that issues like environmental impacts, energy, water, infrastructure strain, and tax incentives remain unresolved. Gonzalez affirmed that residents would continue to organize, advocate, and provide "community oversight and civic engagement" for the future of Independence. The city anticipates the data center's completion by 2028.