Concerns Grow in Childersburg Over Possible Data Center at Industrial Park

Residents of Childersburg, Alabama, are expressing significant opposition to a proposed data center at the city's industrial park, marked by "no data center" signs appearing in yards. Noah Beckham, a resident, voiced concerns about the project's potential impact on the Coosa River, citing the millions of gallons of water some data centers consume daily, which could lead to water scarcity, drought issues, and negative effects on recreation and tourism. The community also fears that the data center's substantial energy demands could strain the local power grid, potentially increasing residents' electricity bills, a problem observed in other communities near data center facilities. City leaders, including Mayor Ken Weston, confirmed that while discussions for the project have been ongoing for nearly ten months, no property has been sold, and no deal is final. Mayor Weston acknowledged the community's questions regarding water usage and cooling methods, noting that specific figures for this project are not yet available. Further complicating the proposal, the designated site within the Childersburg Industrial Park was part of the former Manhattan Project and requires thorough environmental assessment due to past chemical use. Mayor Weston reported that groundwater test results are continually improving and nearing normal levels, with an expected decision on the site's suitability for a data center project to be announced soon. He assured residents that all pertinent information would be shared with the community as it becomes available.