Proposal for Lakeland data center on hold after key meeting cancelled
A proposal for a 600,000-square-foot data center in Lakeland, Florida, known as "Project Swan," has been put on hold after the developers cancelled a key review meeting with the city. This cancellation followed significant opposition from residents and community leaders who voiced concerns about the project's impact on electricity, water use, noise, and the environment. City officials confirmed the project is not officially dead despite the delay.
Plans for "Project Swan," a proposed 600,000-square-foot data center in Lakeland, Florida, have been put on hold after its developers cancelled a critical review meeting with city officials. The decision to cancel came shortly after dozens of Lakeland residents attended a city commission meeting to express strong opposition to the development.
Residents, including community activist Rivera and Polk County GOP Chairman Sam Romain, raised concerns about the data center's potential for massive water and electricity consumption, noise pollution, and overall environmental impact on the community, its future, children, and wildlife. Romain specifically criticized the trend of large corporations seeking cheap power, water, and tax incentives, which he argued often burdens ordinary families. City officials acknowledged the project is delayed but not officially terminated.