Metro Council approves eminent domain to acquire land near Nashville Zoo from data center company
The Nashville Metro Council has approved a bill authorizing the use of eminent domain to acquire 23 acres of land near the Nashville Zoo. This property was purchased by DC BLOX, which planned to build a 10-megawatt data center there. The city intends to use the land for offices, warehouse space, and employee training.
The Nashville Metro Council has voted 27 to 5 to approve a bill that authorizes the city to use eminent domain to acquire over 23 acres of property located at 648 Grassmere Park. The land was recently purchased by DC BLOX for $23 million, with plans to construct a 10-megawatt data center.
The city, however, intends to use the site for offices, warehouse space, and employee training, viewing the data center project as controversial due to its proximity to the Nashville Zoo. Following the vote, Metro leaders will begin negotiations with DC BLOX to determine a fair price for the property. Councilmember Courtney Johnston stated that the council is now entrusting Metro Legal and the Mayor's Office to make the best decision for taxpayers.
Should negotiations fail, the city could pursue legal action in court to finalize the acquisition and determine the fair market value of the property. The city also reserves the option to withdraw from the acquisition process if an agreement cannot be reached.