Project River Data Center Developers Agree to Cleveland Building Requirements
Developers of the $11.3 billion "Project River" energy campus and data center in Bradley County, Tennessee, have tentatively agreed to new building and maintenance requirements proposed by the City of Cleveland. These requirements, outlined in Planned Unit of Development 77 (PUD 77), aim to address community concerns regarding the project's impact, including environmental worries and property values. The proposed ordinance will introduce strict safeguards and hold current and future owners accountable for compliance.
The Wright family, owners of the land and a lead developer for the proposed $11.3 billion "Project River" energy campus in Bradley County, Tennessee, has tentatively accepted new building and maintenance requirements from the City of Cleveland. The project, which includes an onsite power plant and a large data center, has faced community protest over environmental and health concerns, property values, and taxation.
In response to these concerns, the City of Cleveland proposed Planned Unit of Development 77 (PUD 77). This city ordinance, if passed by the City Council, would place rigorous safeguards on the facility's construction and usage, binding current and future owners. Key provisions include requirements for the data center to be set back at least 500 feet from property lines, screened from public view, and subjected to additional stipulations regarding stormwater, lighting, noise, heat, and emissions.
Developers would also be responsible for funding a new fire station, EMS facility, police precinct, and making infrastructure improvements such as traffic signals and turn lanes. A Community Benefit Agreement supporting local schools and infrastructure projects is also part of the proposal. Lukas Salyer, President of Wright Industrial Group, stated their support for codifying the project's commitments into enforceable rules.
The final PUD 77 draft is expected to be published soon, with the city's Planning Commission scheduled to discuss the project next Monday. However, no voting or official action on the document will occur until at least October, allowing time for further review and public discussion.