Westlake approves data center plan despite opposition | NBC DFW
Westlake's Planning and Zoning Commission approved a site plan for a proposed data center despite strong opposition from residents. Concerns were raised about noise, water use, and quality of life. The approval comes as Governor Greg Abbott called for an audit of data center projects connecting to the state's power grid.
The Westlake Planning and Zoning Commission has voted to approve a site plan for a proposed data center, a decision that met with strong resident opposition. People packed Town Hall, with the meeting running for hours, including public comment and executive session, culminating in visible outbursts from the audience following the vote.
The proposed data center, planned for 87 acres along Highway 377 near the Keller city line, would span over 1,000,000 square feet. The town has promoted the project as a significant investment for economic development, while real estate partners noted the land was already zoned for commercial and industrial use before code updates included data centers. The campus is projected to use 54 million gallons of water annually, which leaders claim is comparable to existing corporate campuses, and noise levels are said to comply with ordinances.
Despite these assurances, residents remained unconvinced, voicing concerns about noise, water use, and the impact on quality of life. One resident lamented that taking their children to the local pond would no longer be a quiet experience. The emotional meeting also saw part of the presentation met with laughter from the crowd.
This local approval coincides with Governor Greg Abbott's statewide call for an audit of data center projects seeking to connect to Texas's power grid before new construction can proceed. Although the commission approved the project, they requested additional changes, such as trees, sound berms, and cooling devices, to mitigate impacts on neighbors, though residents remained displeased.