Broken Arrow considers potential data center project

An undisclosed company has approached the Broken Arrow Economic Development Corporation (BAEDC) about constructing a data center on a 51-acre undeveloped, privately owned parcel in Broken Arrow, Oklahoma, located between the Creek Turnpike and State Highway 51 at 8521 S. 209th East Avenue. BAEDC President & CEO James Bell stated that the corporation acts as a bridge, gathering information for community leaders to make informed decisions and ensuring the project aligns with the city's vision. The initiative is in its nascent stages, with the company requesting a pre-development meeting to discuss zoning, standards, and regulations with city officials. This meeting, expected in the coming months, will not be open to the public. City Manager Michael Spurgeon acknowledged significant public interest in data centers and residents' concerns about noise pollution, utility usage (including water and electricity), and environmental impacts. He assured residents that details would be shared as they become available and explicitly stated that no city official or staff member would sign a non-disclosure agreement regarding the potential project. The City of Broken Arrow and the BAEDC are undertaking a due diligence process, which includes assessing infrastructure needs, coordinating with electric and water service providers (Rural Water District No. 4), and evaluating environmental factors and public safety. The proposed site is currently zoned Agricultural and would require a rezoning to Industrial Light, a process that would involve public hearings before both the Planning Commission and the City Council. Spurgeon emphasized the city's commitment to prioritizing citizens' health, safety, and wellness, ensuring any proposal meets or exceeds local ordinances and engineering standards.