Moving forward with eminent domain may mean proposed data center ‘unlikely,’ Nashville Councilman sa
Nashville's Metro Council has voted to move forward with eminent domain to acquire a South Nashville property near the zoo, which was previously purchased by DC BLOX for a controversial data center. This decision is expected to make the data center project unlikely, as the city plans to use the site for office space and new zoning regulations also pose a challenge.
The Nashville Metro Council has voted to acquire a controversial South Nashville property near the zoo through eminent domain, a move expected to halt plans for a new data center on the site. The property was purchased by DC BLOX in July for $23 million, but has since been appraised at $37 million, leading to concerns over the cost to the city.
Metro Councilman Rand Horton, who initiated the discussion, indicated that the acquisition and recently passed zoning regulations make the data center project "unlikely." The city's primary justification for using eminent domain is a severe shortage of office space, which will become more critical with the impending closure of the Metro Southeast office complex.
The Mayor's office, which proposed the eminent domain action, plans to begin legal proceedings to purchase the property and develop site plans for office space. Previously, DC BLOX's attorney maintained that their building plans were vested and permits were in hand, expressing a desire to work with the community. However, this latest action by the Metro Council represents a significant hurdle for the data center developer.