Westlake approves 87-acre data center with added conditions
The Town of Westlake Planning and Zoning Commission has approved an 87-acre data center campus, despite significant public opposition regarding noise, water use, and quality of life. The approval included additional conditions like sound walls, more trees, and specific cooling devices. This decision comes as Governor Greg Abbott has called for an audit of data center projects connecting to the state's power grid.
The Town of Westlake Planning and Zoning Commission has approved a proposal for an 87-acre data center campus, following an emotionally charged meeting that included hours of public comment and an executive session. Residents packed Town Hall, expressing strong concerns about potential impacts on noise, water usage, and overall quality of life.
Despite the community's opposition, the commission voted to approve the project, which will be built along Highway 377 near the Keller city line and encompass over 1 million square feet. The approval was granted with several added conditions requested by the commission, including the installation of additional sound walls, more trees, and specific cooling devices to mitigate potential issues.
Jeff Parsons, representing American Real Estate Partners, the company behind the proposed data center, noted that the property had been zoned for commercial industrial use prior to updated town codes specifically addressing data centers. Town leaders have supported the project, viewing it as a significant investment for economic development, and stated that the estimated annual water usage of 54 million gallons is comparable to existing corporate campuses, with the project designed to comply with local noise ordinances.
This local decision occurs against a broader backdrop, as Texas Governor Greg Abbott has recently called for an audit of data center projects seeking to connect to the state's power grid before their construction proceeds.