Glen Rose Residents Oppose Data Center Bordering State Park
Glen Rose residents and state officials are opposing a proposed $10 billion data center project by Black Mountain, citing environmental concerns over its proximity to Dinosaur Valley State Park and the Paluxy River Basin. State Representative Helen Kerwin is advocating for an immediate pause on data center construction in rural Texas to establish foundational policies. The Texas House Committee on Natural Resources is scheduled to hold a hearing on data center development.
Glen Rose residents, joined by state officials, are actively opposing the construction of a proposed $10 billion data center project by Fort Worth-based developer Black Mountain. The project, planned for 450 acres bordering Dinosaur Valley State Park and along the Paluxy River Basin, has sparked significant environmental concerns regarding its potential impact on the park and local water resources.
Environmental researcher Thad Scott highlighted the substantial impact even small development could have on the river. Kathy Turner Jones, general manager of the Middle Trinity Groundwater Conservation District, emphasized the critical importance of groundwater as a valuable resource for current and future generations.
State Representative Helen Kerwin (R-Glen Rose) attended a meeting organized by Protect The Paluxy Valley, voicing concerns over responsible growth in Texas. She has called on Governor Greg Abbott to implement an "immediate pause" on data center construction in rural areas of the state to allow for the development of robust foundational policies. Some Texans are urging the governor to hold a special legislative session on data center regulation.
In response to growing statewide debate over data center development, the Texas House Committee on Natural Resources is slated to hold a hearing on the issue on Tuesday, June 23.