Florida data center tracker tool already has over a million visits, says developer
James Boger created "Florida Data Centers," an online tool to track data center projects across Florida, which has garnered over a million visits due to public concern over water and energy impacts. The tool helps residents organize opposition, particularly after a state law preserved local governments' zoning approval rights for data centers. It highlights various projects statewide, some facing withdrawals or legal challenges amid fierce community opposition.
James Boger, a 21-year-old web developer from West Palm Beach, launched "Florida Data Centers," an online database designed to help Floridians track proposed and current data center developments across the state. Boger, who became aware of such projects like "Project Tango" in Palm Beach County, created the tool to address public concerns regarding data centers' impact on water and energy resources and to empower residents in organizing opposition. The website, which leverages publicly available information from county commission and utility websites, has garnered over a million visits in approximately one month since its launch.
The platform details various projects, including a 1,200-acre development in St. Lucie County that was temporarily withdrawn due to community opposition, and another in Okeechobee County that was cancelled. Conversely, projects like "Silver Fox" in Indiantown, Martin County, and a 1,300-acre development in Fort Meade, Polk County, are proceeding, with the latter facing legal challenges from local residents. Boger also noted a state law enacted on July 1, a priority of Gov. Ron DeSantis, which maintains local governments' authority to approve or reject major data center projects for zoning purposes. To support the website, Boger offers a paid service for sending opposition letters to county commissioners, reporting over 1,600 letters sent so far. He anticipates expanding the tracker beyond Florida due to its success.