Fort Worth Approves Data Center Development

The Fort Worth City Council has approved a controversial data center project with a 7-2 vote, despite significant opposition from nearby residents. The proposed five-building campus will occupy 120 acres near Tarleton State University and is expected to have a taxable value of $750 million, potentially generating about $5 million annually in tax revenue. Concerns raised by residents include environmental impacts, increased water and energy consumption, and noise pollution, with some advocating for a mixed-use development instead. The developer, Walton Global, has assured that the data center will not be used for cryptocurrency mining and has committed to addressing community concerns. The project still requires submission and approval of a site plan by the Planning and Zoning Commission before construction can commence. This approval aligns with the Dallas/Fort Worth area’s growing demand for data centers as tech companies expand their operations.