Texas legislator threatens to stop data center

Texas State Representative James Frank, who represents Wichita Falls and surrounding counties, is actively addressing concerns about data center developments, specifically a proposed project in Archer County. Rep. Frank has stated his intention to ask Texas Governor Greg Abbott to halt the 'Three Way Road project' if the developers fail to provide sufficient information and answers to the community's concerns. Frank acknowledged the significant economic benefits data centers can bring, such as property tax revenue for schools and roads, and job creation. However, he also highlighted serious constituent concerns regarding the projects' impact on property, electricity grid reliability, and water resources. He has urged the developers to host a public informational meeting. Rep. Frank outlined several strict requirements he believes all new data centers in Texas should meet. These include protecting the electric grid, mandating 'interruptible' power for data centers during emergencies, requiring closed-loop or low-demand water systems for conservation, and limiting noise pollution. He also called for developers to enter into road use agreements with the Texas Department of Transportation to mitigate construction traffic impacts, and to focus on reinvesting economic gains into rural infrastructure rather than relying heavily on tax abatements. The debate underscores the growing tension in Texas between rapid data center expansion and environmental, infrastructure, and community impact concerns, reflecting similar challenges across the state and neighboring regions.