Neighborhood feels ‘boxed in’ with new data center proposed for Southwest Louisville
A neighborhood in Southwest Louisville, Kentucky, is concerned about a proposed 20-acre data center, which would be located near another data center already under construction. The proposal by Dermody comes just days before a metro council vote on a temporary moratorium on new data centers, prompting concerns from residents and a councilwoman about the timing and impact on the community. Residents fear the development will negatively affect their generational wealth and quality of life.
In Louisville, Kentucky, residents of a neighborhood in the Rubbertown area are expressing strong opposition to a proposed 20-acre data center on Kramers Lane. This new development, if approved, would add to an already existing massive data center under construction nearby on Camp Ground Road, leading to widespread frustration among long-time residents who feel "boxed in" by the rapid industrial expansion.
The proposal by Illinois-based real estate developer Dermody involves converting a recently approved 350,000 square-foot warehouse into a data center. This move came just four days before the Louisville Metro Council was scheduled to vote on a temporary moratorium on new data center developments, aiming to establish new regulations. District 1 Councilwoman Tammy Hawkins, who also resides in the affected area, voiced suspicions that the developer strategically timed their proposal to precede the council's vote, stating she felt the developer was "playing in my face, and in the city
Residents like Scott Roberts and Freddie George worry about the impact on their generational property wealth and quality of life, expressing skepticism that council meetings will effectively address their concerns. They fear being displaced or having their properties devalued by the encroaching industrial projects. Rev. Charlotte Jackson appealed for compassion regarding residents' property ownership and the preservation of their community for future generations. Dermody's CFO, the listed applicant, did not respond to requests for comment.