Nashville Zoo fights proposed data center next door, citing risks to rare animals
The Nashville Zoo is actively opposing a proposed 70,000-square-foot DC Blox data center adjacent to its property, citing serious threats from light and noise pollution to its 3,000 animals. An online petition against the project has garnered over 180,000 signatures, and the zoo is urging public involvement before the city makes a final decision.
The Nashville Zoo is vigorously opposing a plan by DC Blox to construct a nearly 70,000-square-foot data center in the Grassmere Business Park, directly next to its South Nashville property. Zoo CEO Rick Schwartz has voiced significant concerns that potential light and noise pollution from the facility could harm its 3,000 animals, including rare species like the clouded leopard.
Schwartz stated that DC Blox has not engaged with the zoo regarding these issues and urged the public to support their fight, highlighting that a data center should not be located near a major animal-focused attraction. The zoo, which anticipates a $65 million Indonesia-themed exhibit, had also hoped to use the site for a children's education and conservation center.
In response, DC Blox affirmed its commitment to minimize environmental impact, stating the project aims to provide essential digital infrastructure. The company plans to use closed-loop or waterless cooling to conserve water, pay for all power and new energy infrastructure, and ensure noise levels are within acceptable limits, adhering to local environmental regulations. They expressed willingness to work with local officials, community members, and the Nashville Zoo to mitigate concerns.
This proposal comes as Tennessee, already home to 60 data centers, expects a doubling of data center growth by 2030, with a new state law requiring developers to cover their own infrastructure costs. The community is awaiting a final decision from the city on the project, with an online petition against the development having gathered over 180,000 signatures.