Construction is expected to begin soon on a proposed $3.2 billion data center in Brookwood
Construction is expected to begin soon on the $3.2 billion Delta Forge 2 AI data center, also known as Project Highlands, in Brookwood, Alabama. While supporters highlight the project's economic benefits and job creation, local residents and former mayor Larry Holloway have voiced significant concerns regarding a lack of transparency and potential negative impacts, including rising utility rates and the data center's proximity to a middle school. The Brookwood City Council is anticipated to vote on the project in the coming weeks.
Construction for the proposed $3.2 billion Delta Forge 2 AI data center, also known as Project Highlands, is expected to commence soon in Brookwood, Alabama. The project, slated for a nearly 1,300-acre site, is projected by the Tuscaloosa County Economic Development Authority to generate over $440 million in community benefits and tax revenue over 20 years, alongside creating about 100 permanent jobs, according to Applied Digital.
Brookwood Mayor Joe Barger believes the data center will spur economic development, attracting new businesses and services to the area. However, residents express significant apprehension, with former mayor Larry Holloway highlighting a perceived lack of transparency due to non-disclosure agreements, which he says left residents uninformed until recently. Holloway stated, "The people don't want it" and raised concerns about the facility's proximity to Brookwood Middle School, less than a mile away.
Residents are also skeptical of assurances regarding utility rates, with Holloway suggesting Alabama's already high rates could further increase due to data center energy demands. The Brookwood City Council's vote on the project is anticipated within the next few weeks, determining the future of the contentious development.