'It's shady': Carroll County residents demand answers about data center
A $9.6 billion data center project, the Carrollton Industrial Campus, is planned for 550 acres in Carroll County, Kentucky. While Carrollton city leaders support the project for its economic benefits, local residents are pushing back. Neighbors express concerns about noise, lighting, and traffic, and feel they have been excluded from the planning process.
A significant $9.6 billion data center development, known as the Carrollton Industrial Campus, is slated for Carroll County, Kentucky, encompassing 550 acres between I-71 and the Kentucky River. The project is being led by Louisville-based Powerhouse Data Centers, which has acquired land, including 342 acres from the City of Carrollton.
Carrollton Mayor Robb Adams is a strong proponent, highlighting the substantial economic benefits for the community. An economic analysis, commissioned by the developers, projects $93.2 million in tax revenue for local schools and government agencies, along with an annual $11.1 million payment to the city as part of the developer agreement.
Despite official support, local residents living near the proposed site express considerable frustration and concern. Many feel "left in the dark," stating they were shocked by the news. Their main worries revolve around potential increases in noise, lighting, and traffic. Residents also dispute Mayor Adams' characterization of the land as unsuitable for agriculture, asserting the presence of prime agricultural fields. They demand more transparency and dialogue from city officials regarding the project.
The data center is anticipated to create over 2,000 construction jobs and more than 300 permanent positions in the area.