Nashville city council approves plan to acquire land earmarked for data center
The Nashville Metro Council approved a measure to acquire land next to the Nashville Zoo, which was previously owned by DC BLOX and intended for a data center. This action, costing $37 million in taxpayer dollars, aims to prevent the data center's construction due to environmental concerns for the zoo animals.
The Nashville Metro Council has approved a measure to acquire a parcel of land adjacent to the Nashville Zoo, which was originally slated for data center development by DC BLOX. The land, which DC BLOX recently purchased for $23 million, will now cost city taxpayers approximately $37 million. This decision follows concerns that a data center built in close proximity could negatively impact the zoo's animals.
The approved legislation aims to buy the property for alternative uses such as office space, training facilities, and warehouses, addressing a severe shortage in Metro's office space, especially with the looming closure of the Southeast Metro office complex. While some council members expressed concern over the $37 million price tag, viewing the measure as a "performative" and "Johnny-come-lately solution," others, like Council Member Roland Horton, defended it as a necessary and useful investment for the city.
Council Member Calvin Horan also clarified that the measure gives Metro the flexibility to withdraw from the acquisition at any time, with council members being informed of such a decision during a three-week period following the choice.