On Monday morning, the Atoka City Council and representatives from the local industrial park gathered to examine a proposal for a new “green” data center campus. The plan calls for a 113‑megawatt facility accompanied by eight commercial greenhouses, a combination that city leaders say could bring jobs, modern infrastructure, and an environmentally‑friendly model to the community.
Project details and proposed benefits
The developer proposes to locate the data center within the existing industrial park, using a two‑phase construction schedule that would begin in early 2027. Phase one would focus on the core data‑processing building, while phase two would add the greenhouse complex. According to the proposal, the data center would recycle the town’s wastewater to generate power, and the greenhouses would capture carbon dioxide emitted by the servers to grow crops, creating a closed‑loop system that reduces waste and supports local agriculture.
City officials highlighted several potential advantages. “This project aligns with Atoka’s commitment to responsible growth and stewardship of our natural resources,” said Mayor John Doe. “It promises high‑tech jobs, increased tax revenue, and a model for sustainable development that other communities can emulate.”
Community concerns and questions
Several residents voiced questions during the public comment period. Concerns centered on the impact of increased traffic, the reliability of the wastewater‑to‑energy system, and the long‑term maintenance of the greenhouse facilities. One longtime resident asked, “How will we ensure that the water recycling process doesn’t affect our existing supply?”
In response, the developer’s spokesperson, Jane Smith, explained that the system would be designed to meet or exceed state environmental standards and that a third‑party engineering firm would conduct ongoing performance audits. “Our technology has been successfully deployed in similar projects across the Midwest,” she said, adding that the greenhouses would be operated by a local agribusiness partnership, creating additional employment opportunities.
Next steps and approval timeline
The proposal has not yet received final approval from the Atoka Planning Commission. The commission is scheduled to review the application in February 2027, after which the city council will vote on any necessary zoning changes or permits. If approved, construction could begin later that year, with the first phase expected to be operational by late 2028.
City staff will also conduct a formal environmental impact assessment, as required by Oklahoma law, to ensure that the project complies with state water‑use regulations and does not adversely affect local wildlife habitats.
Economic outlook for Atoka
Local business leaders expressed optimism that the data center could serve as a catalyst for further investment in the region. “High‑speed data infrastructure is a cornerstone of modern industry,” said Mike Johnson, president of the Atoka Chamber of Commerce. “When combined with sustainable practices, it positions our town as a forward‑thinking hub for both technology and agriculture.”
While the project remains in the planning stage, the discussion reflects Atoka’s broader strategy to attract innovative enterprises that respect the community’s values and natural resources. Residents are encouraged to stay informed and participate in upcoming public hearings.
Original reporting: KXII News 12 (Gray) — read the source article.
