Nashville Zoo fights proposed data center next door
The Nashville Zoo is opposing a proposed DC BLOX data center next to its property in South Nashville, citing concerns about noise, light pollution, and environmental impacts on its 3,000 animals. An online petition against the project has garnered over 180,000 signatures, with the zoo asking for community support to stop the development.
The Nashville Zoo is expressing significant concern over a proposed 70,000-square-foot data center by DC BLOX, planned for construction directly adjacent to its South Nashville property. Zoo CEO Rick Short articulated fears that potential light and noise pollution, alongside other environmental impacts from the facility, could adversely affect the zoo's 3,000 animals. Special attention was drawn to highly sensitive species like the clouded leopard, which the zoo successfully breeds and finds particularly vulnerable to mechanical noises and environmental disturbances.
DC BLOX has countered these concerns, stating their facility will not be an "AI factory draining local resources." The company promises to implement a waterless cooling system, fund new infrastructure, and maintain noise levels within acceptable limits. Despite these assurances, public opposition is strong, evidenced by an online petition against the project that has collected more than 180,000 signatures.
The Nashville Zoo is actively urging community members to join their fight against the data center, arguing that a different location would be more appropriate for such a development, rather than next to a major animal attraction. The zoo has also indicated its desire to acquire the contested land to build an education and conservation center for children, suggesting this would be a more beneficial use of the space.