Memphis neighborhood blindsided by newly revealed xAI data center
Whitehaven residents in Memphis were surprised and angered by the revelation of another xAI data center, known as Minihard, in their neighborhood, adding to existing Macrohard and Macroharder facilities. Concerns include noise, traffic, and ongoing air and water quality issues, with residents criticizing city and county leadership for a lack of transparency and regulation.
Residents of Whitehaven, a Memphis neighborhood, have expressed anger and disbelief following the announcement of a fourth xAI data center, named Minihard, in their community. This revelation came from xAI owner Elon Musk via social media, catching many off guard as construction for Minihard is already underway. This new facility joins two other large xAI data centers, Macrohard and Macroharder, currently under construction on Tain Road.
Community members, including longtime opponents, are criticizing city and county leadership for failing to protect residents and implement regulations for data center developments. Concerns are focused on increased noise pollution from the 24/7 operations of existing facilities, growing traffic congestion in what was once a quiet area, and ongoing worries about air and water quality impacts.
Latrice Adams, founder, CEO, and president of Young, Gifted, and Green, stated that she and other Memphis residents were unaware of a fourth data center. She described the lack of transparency as typical for both the company's operations and the city's tendency to yield to industry pressure. Residents like Peters voiced heartbreak and disappointment over public officials not providing an opportunity for community input. FOX 13's Martin Stuntton reported that the mayor's office had not responded to their inquiry regarding the new data center.