Nashville Zoo pushes back on 1.6-acre data center build near animal habitats — Zoo says it planned to use lot for education and conservation center
The Nashville Zoo is opposing a proposed 1.6-acre data center build by DC Blox adjacent to its property, citing concerns over noise, light pollution, and water quality that could harm its animal inhabitants. Zoo officials also expressed interest in using the land for a conservation center. While DC Blox claims the facility will use water-efficient cooling and not be an "AI factory," the project's potential 50 MW power draw and the zoo's sensitivity to environmental changes have raised significant opposition, including a petition with over 322,000 signatories. AI
IMPACT Potential for increased local power grid strain and environmental concerns may influence future data center siting decisions.