Tyler residents gather to learn about proposed data center
Residents in Tyler, Texas, gathered to discuss a proposed 12,500 MW Bitcoin mining data center planned by Vulcan Core LLC, with Barrio as the leasee. Concerns were raised regarding noise, water usage, and potential impacts on electricity bills, despite developers assuring minimal impact. The project requires a special use permit and is scheduled to go before Tyler Planning and Zoning on July 7th.
A proposed 12,500 MW Bitcoin mining data center in Tyler, Texas, has drawn concerns from local residents. The project, planned by developer Vulcan Core LLC with Barrio as the final leasee, would be located near downtown Tyler on West Erwin Street, adjacent to an Oncor substation. Developers stated the site was chosen due to the substation's excess power, an available building, and proper zoning.
At a community meeting, residents voiced significant concerns regarding potential noise pollution, water usage, and the impact on local electricity bills. Mitch Brown, the local project manager for Vulcan Core, attempted to reassure the community, stating that the facility is designed to be quieter than normal area volume and will use a self-contained cooling system, thus not requiring city water or increasing Tylerites' electric bills.
Despite the developers' assurances, many residents remained skeptical, questioning why Smith County and North Tyler were chosen for the project. The proposed data center requires a special use permit as data centers are not specifically zoned in the area. The project is slated to go before the Tyler Planning and Zoning commission on July 7th for a decision.