Piedmont residents push back against proposed data center development
Piedmont residents are opposing two proposed data center developments by Cloverleaf and Beltline, citing concerns over traffic, water use, and environmental impacts. The Piedmont Planning Commission voted to table Cloverleaf's rezoning request, delaying a decision on the project.
Piedmont residents voiced strong opposition at a Monday night Piedmont Planning Commission meeting regarding a proposed 633-acre data center development by Cloverleaf. The project would necessitate rezoning agricultural land for industrial use near the Matthewson substation.
Residents, including Troy Mason, expressed concerns that the development would destroy their community. Chelsea B. highlighted worries about increased traffic, exacerbated water issues for the city, and potential air and water pollution from chemicals. Aaron Bilyeu, Cloverleaf's chief development officer, refuted claims of emissions or 'forever chemicals' from the facility, stating it would use a closed-loop cooling system to reduce water consumption.
Following the discussion, the Planning Commission voted to table Cloverleaf's rezoning request, along with a separate rezoning request for future land use in another part of the city. Chairman Patrick Scott and Commissioner Asa Warlick supported the delay to allow for additional study before forwarding recommendations to the City Council.
No date has been set for when the Piedmont City Council will consider either rezoning request. Cloverleaf's project is one of two proposed data center developments in Piedmont, with another company, Beltline, also seeking to rezone land for industrial use for a facility located north of Waterloo Road. Both projects have generated significant resident concern about the community's future growth.