Palm Coast clarifies approved DC Blox data center project scope
The City of Palm Coast clarified the approved scope of the DC Blox cable landing station project, stating it is a single 33,760-square-foot facility, not two buildings totaling 100,000 square feet as inaccurately reported. The City Council is also advancing amendments to the Land Development Code to require a Special Exception for future data center proposals. This move aims to provide accurate information and address public concerns regarding development.
The City of Palm Coast issued a clarification regarding the approved scope of the DC Blox cable landing station project currently under construction in its Town Center. This statement comes after public comments made during a June 19 radio interview inaccurately described the facility as two buildings totaling 100,000 square feet. City Manager Mike McGlothlin confirmed that the approved and permitted project consists of a single 33,760-square-foot facility, with no second building having received city approval. Any future expansion would necessitate a separate review and approval process, subject to prevailing regulations and public review.
The approved DC Blox project qualified for administrative review under the City's Land Development Code due to its size, which is under 40,000 square feet. Projects between 40,000 and 99,999 square feet require review by the Planning Land Development and Regulation Board (PLDRB), while those 100,000 square feet or larger require review by both the PLDRB and the Palm Coast City Council. The city also noted that the approved facility is not a hyperscale data center, addressing resident questions and public concerns about large-scale developments.
In parallel, the Palm Coast City Council is moving forward with proposed amendments to the Land Development Code. These changes would introduce additional requirements for future data center proposals, specifically mandating a Special Exception approved by a supermajority vote of the City Council following a public hearing. The City emphasizes its commitment to transparency and providing accurate information to residents regarding development projects.