Boston developer files building permit for Pinellas Park data center
A Boston-based developer, American Tower, has filed a permit to build a new data center in Pinellas Park, Florida. The project faces local scrutiny over infrastructure, environmental impact, and noise, with public hearings pending for the conditional use approval. Pinellas County leaders are also researching a potential data center moratorium.
American Tower, a Boston-based developer, has filed a building permit application for a new data center at 10700 76th Court North in Pinellas Park, Florida. The proposal involves demolishing an existing empty building on the half-acre site, which is close to residential areas. Pinellas Park officials are treating the facility as a conditional use, necessitating a formal review and public approval process, though a date for the first public hearing has not yet been scheduled.
The project is encountering questions regarding its impact on local infrastructure, including electricity and water consumption, as well as potential noise and air emissions from backup generators. This scrutiny is heightened as other Florida communities, such as Hernando, Citrus, and Pasco counties, have recently enacted or are considering temporary bans or pauses on data center construction due to similar concerns. Pinellas County leaders are also researching a potential moratorium.
Nick Colonna, Community Development Administrator for Pinellas Park, noted that current zoning laws do not explicitly define data centers, requiring a strict review process to assess the project's impact. Local business owners and residents are encouraged to attend upcoming public meetings to voice their opinions before the Pinellas Park City Council ultimately votes on the permit request.