El Pasoans seek more details about proposed Fort Bliss data center

Fort Bliss officials, joined by representatives from Carlyle, the lead developer, held an initial listening session to address public concerns regarding a proposed 1,384-acre data center on the eastern side of the post. The facility, which will store both military and non-military data, is in the process of finalizing a 50-year Enhanced Use Lease, with the U.S. Army retaining land ownership. Residents, including Xavier Miranda, expressed skepticism about the project's claim to be "water neutral," fearing it would drain the Hueco Bolson aquifer, a vital water source for El Paso. Miranda also questioned the true purpose of the data, raising concerns about potential surveillance and the environmental impact on unincorporated, largely immigrant communities in El Paso County. Fort Bliss Garrison Commander Col. Michael V. Soyka reiterated that the project aims to be water neutral and avoid impacting El Paso's water or electrical rates, with a goal for initial operating conditions by Fiscal Year 2027. Mayor Renard Johnson also voiced support for data centers as economic drivers but stressed the need to balance development with resource conservation and ensure local hiring by Carlyle.