Community pushback pauses Fort Worth vote on tax break for $1.1 billion data‑center project

A proposed $1.1 billion data center project in Fort Worth, Texas, slated for 186 acres near I-20 and Benbrook, faced significant community opposition, resulting in the postponement of a critical city council vote on a tax abatement. The Connecticut-based developer behind the project highlighted its potential to create 50 new full-time jobs. However, local residents voiced strong concerns and demanded more stringent regulations for data centers, packing Fort Worth City Hall to address city leaders. After over 90 minutes of public commentary, a city council member withdrew their earlier motion for the tax abatement, citing the need for a more comprehensive council discussion. While specific safeguards for the community were not immediately enacted, residents viewed the delay as a small victory, demonstrating that their government was responsive to their requests for additional time to consider the project's implications. The project's development has been temporarily delayed as a result of the community's advocacy.