In Hood County, Texas, a rural community of 62,000 residents, the proposed development of eight data centers is causing significant concern among locals. The data centers, spanning over 7,600 acres, are set to transform the picturesque landscape into an industrial hub, potentially straining local resources.

Local Concerns and Limited Authority

Residents like Brian and Laura Crawford, who cherish their 118-acre property along the Paluxy River Valley, fear the impact of these developments on their community. The Comanche Circle project alone, one of the proposed data centers, is expected to cover an area almost six times the size of the University of Texas at Austin’s main campus.

Despite the outcry from the community, county officials say they have limited power to halt or slow the development due to state laws. Hood County Commissioner Kevin Andrews expressed his frustration, stating, “I was elected by the people to represent their opinion, but I also have to follow the law … and not get the county sued.”

State Laws and Development Trends

In Texas, counties typically lack the zoning authority that cities possess, making it easier for developers to build in rural, unincorporated areas. This has led to a surge in data center developments in such regions, with Hood County ranking third per square mile for planned data centers in the state.

Experts note that Texas’s lack of regulation and available resources like cheap land and power make it an attractive location for data center developers. However, this rapid development has raised questions about the long-term benefits for local communities, as data centers often create few permanent jobs after construction.

Community and Economic Impact

While developers promise increased tax revenue and investment, some residents and commissioners remain skeptical. The potential environmental impact, particularly concerning water and power usage, adds to the community’s concerns. The Comanche Circle project alone could require up to 3 gigawatts of electricity and significant water resources, raising questions about sustainability.

As Hood County grapples with these challenges, the broader trend of data center expansion in Texas continues, driven by the demand for digital infrastructure to support artificial intelligence and cloud computing.

Original reporting: Texas Tribune (HLL/CB) — read the source article.