Debate Intensifies Over Proposed Data Center in Pima County
The contentious Project Blue data center proposal in Tucson has taken a significant step forward. This development, earmarked for a 290-acre site in southeastern Pima County, has sparked intense debate among local officials and community members alike. The recent agreement between Pima County and Beale Infrastructure outlines the developer’s commitments and potential community benefits, as detailed in a public document.
However, some Pima County supervisors have voiced concerns about the project’s impact on public health and local resources. Supervisor Andrés Cano is particularly wary, referencing Tucson’s historical industrial challenges that have led to water contamination issues in certain areas. “We cannot rush deals like this for short term gains, because the costs do not stay short term. They linger, in our bodies, in our neighborhoods, and in our public trust,” Cano emphasized. He cautions against repeating past mistakes where public health considerations were sidelined.
Despite the pushback, other supervisors believe the project comes with safeguards. Supervisor Rex Scott, who backs Project Blue, assured that residents would not face increased utility costs. He stated, “What this memorandum of agreement provides is a path forward for ensuring that Beale’s commitment to match 100% of its energy consumption with renewable energy is met.” Furthermore, Scott highlighted that Beale has agreed to implement a closed-loop cooling system, a significant shift from the initial plan that required city water.
The county supervisors’ vote concluded with a narrow 3-2 approval of the agreement, amidst contrasting public opinions. During the meeting, advocacy group No Desert Data Coalition voiced their opposition, while union workers, identifiable by their yellow construction vests, expressed support for the project.
This decision follows the Arizona Corporation Commission’s recent approval of a partnership that enables Beale to utilize electricity from Tucson Electric Power for the data center’s cooling needs. This came after the city of Tucson rejected the original plan that involved using municipal water.
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