Construction begins for second data center in the Angelina County area
Hyper Data Grid has initiated construction on a second data center in Hudson, Angelina County, Texas. Residents are expressing concerns regarding potential water demand, noise pollution, and strain on local infrastructure. County officials are currently limited in their ability to regulate such developments and are seeking land use authority from the state legislature.
Hyper Data Grid, a Houston-based company, has commenced construction in the city of Hudson on Highway 103, marking its second data center project near Angelina County. This development is proceeding despite local residents voicing significant concerns regarding future water demand, potential noise pollution, and the overall strain on existing infrastructure. The construction is focused on the former Northern Chip No property, where Hyper Data Grid plans a smaller data center utilizing its own water wells on-site and an agreement with Encore for power supply.
Angelina County Judge Keith Wright explained that the county commissioners' hands are tied due to a lack of land-use control and existing permits that were not required years ago, leaving residents feeling powerless to halt the project's progress. Wright noted that unless companies apply for a tax abatement or road use agreements, the county has limited means to protect itself from potential damages or collect fees.
In response to the growing challenges, county commissioners are seeking intervention from the state. They have initiated conversations with State Senator Trent Ashby and State Representative Rocky Teel, both of whom have expressed willingness to address the issue of granting counties more land-use authority to manage such developments in the future.