A proposed data center next to the Nashville Zoo is drawing mounting opposition from local residents, elected officials, and country music star Brad Paisley, as Nashville leaders weigh new restrictions on large-scale data center development.Atlanta-based DC Blox plans to build a 69,000-square-foot data center on land adjacent to the Nashville Zoo. According to public permitting documents, the facility would occupy roughly 1.6 acres under one roof on a 23.5-acre site. The proposal also includes two additional buildings, a substation, and supporting infrastructure. The project is expected to consume at least 50 megawatts of electricity, which is enough to power an estimated 30,000 to 50,000 single-family homes.The Nashville Zoo has emerged as one of the project’s most vocal opponents, warning that the development could affect animals, visitors, and nearby residents.
“At Nashville Zoo, our top priority is to protect our precious animals and their environment,” the zoo wrote in a statement. “We are equally committed to the health and safety of our visitors, staff and neighbors living nearby. Yet, with no regulations or safeguards in place, DC Blox intends to build a data center on land abutting the zoo. We vehemently oppose the proposed data center and are asking for your support.”
