Second data center proposed west of Albany draws mixed reactions in Shackelford County

A second data center, dubbed "Project North," is being proposed for Shackelford County, Texas, west of Albany. Developer Bolt Data and Energy plans to build the facility on the Buck Nail Ranch, approximately 16 miles outside Albany. This development follows a $25 billion data center campus already established in the county, and the new proposal has elicited varied responses from the community.

During a town hall meeting at Albany High School, residents voiced both support and opposition. Opponents, like Blaine Kayga, expressed frustration over the project's location and anticipated impacts, including increased traffic and safety concerns, which they report are already issues due to ongoing construction of the first data center. Bolt Data and Energy representatives stated that Project North would generate its own power to minimize reliance on the state's electrical grid, though details regarding the project's size, water demand, job creation, and timeline remain unconfirmed.

Conversely, some residents, such as John Reese, believe the project could provide much-needed employment opportunities. However, even supporters like Reese have lingering questions about the development's broader effects on local residents, particularly concerning potential increases in rent, electricity, and water costs. The Shackelford County commissioners have yet to approve "Project North," indicating the proposal is still pending a decision.