Project Blue protest in Tucson turns physical

A recent protest against the Project Blue data center development in Tucson, Arizona, escalated into a physical confrontation at the law offices of Lazarus and Silvyn P.C., which represents the developer, Beale Infrastructure. Approximately 20 individuals, including members of Tucson Movement Photographers, Stand Up Fight Back Tucson, and Autonomy Tucson, gathered at the firm's East Grant Road location. Protesters claim an employee physically assaulted them while they handed out pamphlets and made noise, also delivering a letter demanding the law firm sever ties with Beale Infrastructure and issue a public apology. Beale Infrastructure, however, stated that a masked group marched through their partner's offices, loudly banging drums, shouting threats, and pulling items from desks, condemning the behavior. Tucson police responded to the incident, but details were not immediately available. This event follows an earlier attempt on April 24 by protesters to block construction vehicles at the data center's site near the Pima County Fairgrounds. The Project Blue data center, a 290-acre development, has faced significant local opposition due to concerns over water usage, high energy demands, and a perceived lack of transparency. The Tucson City Council unanimously rejected the project within city limits last August. Despite this, developers are continuing construction outside city limits near the Pima County Fairgrounds. Recently, the city shut off access to Tucson Water for the construction crews working on the project.