Mixed reviews from De Soto residents over data center
Digital Realty proposes a third data center in De Soto, Kansas, at the former Sunflower ammunition plant site. Residents express mixed reviews, with concerns about noise, electricity strain, and water usage, while the company provides assurances. The proposal is slated for presentation to the city's Planning Commission next month.
Digital Realty is proposing a new data center development in De Soto, Kansas, marking the third such facility for the rapidly growing western Johnson County suburb. The proposed project would be located at the former Sunflower ammunition plant site, encompassing 1400 acres and eventually housing approximately 98 data center buildings totaling 3 million square feet. The first phase alone would utilize up to 280 acres.
During an open meeting hosted by Digital Realty, company representatives outlined their plans and addressed community concerns. Residents voiced mixed reactions, primarily focusing on potential noise pollution, the strain on local resources such as electricity and water, and the impact of constructing new electrical infrastructure. Digital Realty emphasized its long history of responsible development and community engagement across the United States.
Scott Kilbury, reporting for FOX 4 News, noted that while some residents, like one concerned about noise, were satisfied with the company's responses, others remained uneasy about resource depletion, especially given the existing Panasonic battery plant and another data center project already underway in the area. The next step for Digital Realty is to present its proposal to the De Soto City Planning Commission next month for further review.