Westlake residents push back against proposed data center near Buddhist monastery

A proposed 1 million sq ft data center in Westlake, Texas, is facing significant backlash from local residents and a nearby Buddhist monastery. The facility, planned along the Keller city line, has prompted concerns about noise pollution, potential health impacts, and a decline in property values. Maechee Sarah Hudson, a nun at the Buddhist monastery off U.S. Highway 377, expressed worries that the development would disrupt the monastery's tranquil environment and daily practices, emphasizing the importance of protecting places of peace.

Residents, including Kevin Myers, echoed these sentiments, highlighting specific concerns about noise, health, and property values. The Town of Westlake, however, asserted that the project meets all safety standards and will comply with its noise ordinance. Officials also noted that a landscaped berm, a 75-foot landscape buffer, and mature vegetation are planned to mitigate visual and sound impacts. The town clarified that the property is privately owned and falls within a Planned Development District, which permits a data center as a land use by right.

The local opposition comes amidst broader scrutiny of data center projects in Texas. Governor Greg Abbott recently instructed the Public Utility Commission and the Electric Reliability Council of Texas to audit all proposed data center projects seeking grid connection statewide before construction can proceed. Despite the town's reassurances, Hudson and other residents intend to continue their opposition to the Westlake data center project.