Fort Worth City Council delays vote on proposed $1.1B data center amid resident concerns

The Fort Worth City Council recently delayed a vote on a proposed $1.1 billion data center at the corner of Interstate 20 and Farm to Market Road 2871, following vocal opposition from residents. Brittany Costello reported that resident Krista Irby, who can see the project site from her backyard, organized opposition after realizing the land, which was rezoned last year, was for a new data center. Irby emphasized that while she is not anti-data center, she believes there isn't enough information to proceed safely. More than a dozen residents, some carrying signs, attended the Fort Worth City Council meeting, urging them to reject a tax abatement for the project. They raised concerns about potential noise levels, excessive water usage, and the city's ability to ensure compliance and regulation to protect residents' safety. They specifically requested the establishment of an ongoing inspection and compliance function for data centers in Fort Worth. Councilman Michael Crane, whose district includes the data center site, stated he has no concerns about the project, highlighting that Edge Data Center was founded on energy sustainability. A spokesperson for Edge Data Center affirmed their use of minimal water with a closed-loop system and plans to build an on-site substation. The company emphasized its role as owner-operators committed to being good community stewards. However, residents are seeking broader assurances for this and future data center developments in Fort Worth, prompting calls for city staff to review existing rules and zoning to protect the quality of life while promoting economic growth.