Glendale Planning Commission recommends approval of Project Eagle data center and natural gas power plant
Glendale’s Planning and Zoning Commission recommended approval of Project Eagle, a proposed data center and natural gas power plant near Luke Air Force Base. The project faces substantial resident opposition and unresolved questions about water supply, while the Glendale City Council is expected to make the final decision.
The Glendale Planning and Zoning Commission recommended approval of Project Eagle, formerly known as Baccara, after rejecting a motion to deny the rezoning request and approving a recommendation with 11 conditions. The proposed development would include three data center buildings totaling more than 1 million square feet, a natural gas power plant with 18 turbines, and an Arizona Public Service substation on 160 acres near Luke Air Force Base. The developer says the project represents an investment of more than $10 billion.
Residents and commissioners raised concerns about water availability, noise, air quality, fuel storage, fire risks and the project’s proximity to the air base. Opponents say they have collected about 11,000 signatures, while the developer says its closed-loop cooling system would use substantially less water than previous agricultural operations and that the project will meet Luke’s conditions. EPCOR would provide water and sewer service, although water supply and credits are still being finalized. The Glendale City Council is expected to hold the final vote on Oct. 27.