Columbus residents speak against proposed data center. More project details shared
News ClipColumbus Ledger-Enquirer·Columbus, Muscogee County, GA·2/25/2026
Residents of Columbus, GA are opposing a proposed $5.18 billion data center project named 'Project Ruby' that would be located on 900 undeveloped acres in northeast Muscogee County. Concerns include the project's impact on the local water and energy systems, as well as environmental impacts like noise, light, and air pollution. The Columbus Council heard arguments for a moratorium on data center development in the city to further study the potential risks.
zoningoppositionenvironmentalelectricitywatermoratorium
Gov: Columbus Council, Clean Energy Columbus
The Columbus Council heard opposing views on a proposed $5.18 billion data center project named Project Ruby. Several residents spoke against the project, citing concerns about environmental impact, water usage, and the relatively small number of jobs it would create. However, Missy Kendrick, president and CEO of Choose Columbus, defended the project, saying it would fit well with Columbus' existing data centers and that the developers have proposed measures to mitigate issues like noise and environmental impact. The council is divided on whether to support the project or impose a moratorium on data center development in the city.