DC BLOX Sues Metro Over Blocked Data Center Project Near Nashville Zoo
DC BLOX has filed a lawsuit against Metro Nashville after the city halted its planned data center project near the Nashville Zoo. The company alleges Metro violated its rights by imposing new data center rules and a temporary moratorium despite previously approved permits and zoning. DC BLOX seeks to compel Metro to resume permit processing and block the moratorium's enforcement against its project.
DC BLOX has filed a lawsuit against Metro Nashville, alleging the city illegally halted its planned data center development near the Nashville Zoo. The company claims it had already secured permits and development rights for the Grassmere Park property, which it purchased for $23 million, noting the site was previously an Asurion data center and already zoned appropriately.
According to the lawsuit obtained by WSMV, Metro's zoning administrator initially determined the project was allowed and later confirmed that DC BLOX's permit applications had "vested." However, DC BLOX asserts that Metro subsequently enacted new data center regulations and a temporary moratorium on permits, then froze its applications instead of continuing the review.
DC BLOX further alleges discriminatory treatment, citing public opposition from Mayor Freddie O'Connell and Councilmember Courtney Johnston, who sponsored the moratorium. The company claims another Nashville data center project proceeded through permitting while its own was delayed.
The lawsuit contends Metro violated DC BLOX's constitutional rights and Tennessee's vested property rights laws. DC BLOX is seeking a court order to compel Metro to resume permit processing, prevent the moratorium's enforcement against its project, and award damages. Metro Nashville has not yet filed a response to the allegations.