Bessemer, September 14, 2025
News Summary
Residents in Bessemer voiced their concerns over a proposed $14.9 billion data center project that could significantly affect their neighborhoods. Concerns include pollution, noise, increased utility bills, and potential declines in property values. Community members emphasized the need for transparency from city leaders, leading to delayed city council votes. With discussions set for October, residents continue to push for legal and environmental assessments before any decisions are made.
Bessemer residents gathered at Mannafested In Christ Ministries to express their frustrations over a proposed $14.9 billion data center project that could have significant implications for their communities. The project aims to establish one of the largest data centers in the South, covering approximately 675 acres off Rock Mountain Lake Road.
Community members have raised serious concerns regarding transparency from city leaders related to the project. The President of the Metro-Birmingham NAACP noted that many inquiries were being made during public forums, but critical questions remained unanswered. During a recent city council meeting, it was revealed that some community members were reportedly better informed about the data center than the city councilors themselves, leading to increased apprehensions.
The proposed data center is situated between two residential neighborhoods, Red Mountain Heights and Rock Mountain Lake, and local residents fear it could have extensive repercussions for their quality of life. Primary concerns include regular pollution, noise and light disturbances, escalating utility bills, and potential declines in property values. A resident highlighted the ongoing struggles with health impacts and water usage in relation to local utility providers, further complicating the matter.
Additionally, another resident raised questions regarding environmental justice and the rationale behind constructing such a large data center in one location, proposing that smaller facilities might alleviate potential risks. The planning and zoning committee of the city is set to hold discussions regarding the project, urging community members to participate and pose further questions.
A decision from the committee is anticipated to return to the city council for a final vote scheduled for October. The current rezoning proposal seeks to convert nearly 700 acres from agricultural usage to light industrial zoning to facilitate the development of 18 data centers.
Due to substantial public opposition, the city council previously postponed the project vote. The mayor has expressed support for development but also recognizes the essential need to adequately address community concerns. Environmental implications associated with data centers, particularly relating to air quality, water consumption, and impacts on endangered species, have been flagged as vital issues to consider throughout this process.
Although the city’s planning and zoning committee has previously endorsed aspects of the project, further reviews are ongoing. The council’s recent decision to delay the final consideration is perceived as a win for residents opposed to the data center project. Community involvement remains strong, as demonstrated by attendees donning red and filling the room to capacity during council meetings.
Residents have signaled their readiness to continue opposing the proposed data center. Community members are advocating for both legal and environmental assessments to be thoroughly deliberated.
FAQ Section
What is the proposed data center project in Bessemer?
The project is a $14.9 billion data center that aims to cover 675 acres and is located off Rock Mountain Lake Road, making it one of the largest in the South.
What concerns have residents voiced regarding the data center?
Residents are worried about pollution, potential noise and light disturbances, increased utility bills, health impacts, and the likelihood of decreased property values.
What actions have local officials taken regarding the project?
The city council has postponed the project vote due to public opposition and concerns about transparency and unanswered questions about the data center’s impact.
When is the final decision expected on the proposed data center?
A decision from the planning and zoning committee is expected to return to the city council for a final vote in October.
What is the size of the area being rezoned for the project?
The rezoning effort seeks to convert nearly 700 acres from agricultural to light industrial use for the construction of 18 data centers.
Key Features of the Proposed Data Center Project
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Location | Off Rock Mountain Lake Road, Bessemer |
| Proposed Budget | $14.9 billion |
| Area Coverage | 675 acres |
| Number of Data Centers | 18 |
| Rezoning Proposal | Agricultural to light industrial use |
| Upcoming Votes | Planning and zoning committee followed by city council in October |
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Additional Resources
- WBRC: Bessemer Residents Frustrated Over Proposed Data Center
- AL.com: Controversial $14 Billion Data Center Proposal Delayed Again
- Alabama Reflector: Bessemer Hyperscale Data Center Project Hits a Speed Bump
- Data Center Dynamics: 700-Acre Data Center in Bessemer Approved Despite Opposition
- Broadband Breakfast: Bessemer Delays Vote on $14.5 Billion Data Center
- Wikipedia: Data Center
- Google Search: Bessemer Data Center
- Google Scholar: Data Centers
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Data Center
- Google News: Bessemer Data Center
Author: STAFF HERE BIRMINGHAM WRITER
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