Nashville moves to seize land via eminent domain to block data center over zoo animal noise concerns

Published Jul 24, 08:05 PM UTC

Nashville officials are moving to stop a planned data center by Atlanta-based DC BLOX from being built next to the Nashville Zoo, citing potential harm to sensitive animals, particularly endangered clouded leopards. The zoo argues that constant hums and vibrations from the facility's cooling equipment could cause stress and disrupt breeding. The Nashville-Davidson Metro Council passed a temporary moratorium on new data centers and advanced legislation enabling the city to seize the property via eminent domain, citing a need for office space. DC BLOX has already purchased the site for $23 million and committed to sound barriers and quieter equipment, but the zoo remains opposed. Legal experts note the company may have a strong case against the seizure as a pretextual taking, and existing zoning may protect the project. The dispute highlights a novel question about data center noise impacts on zoo animals, with no clear scientific precedent.