A massive data center project backed by Georgia Lieutenant Governor Burt Jones and his family aims to transform Butts County with a mix of health facilities and tech infrastructure. Set for completion by 2040, the $10 billion development raises questions about water use and environmental strain in a region facing rapid growth.
Project Details Emerge Amid Uncertainty
Details on the Highway 16 Interstate Health Development remain limited, drawn mostly from a short state filing. The plan calls for a 450,000 square foot hospital, 1.2 million square feet of medical office space, and 11 million square feet of data centers along Interstate 75.
This setup would make it one of the largest data center projects in Georgia. Owned by Jones’ father, the site promises to blend healthcare and technology in a rural area south of Atlanta.
Proponents highlight the project’s scale. It could create jobs and boost local services. Yet, key facts like power needs and cooling methods stay unclear, fueling debate among locals and experts.
Water Usage Sparks Major Concerns
The project is expected to consume over 4.5 million gallons of water each day for cooling servers. That amount would more than triple Butts County’s current daily water use, putting pressure on the Ocmulgee River Basin.
Environmental groups worry about the basin’s future. With 24 other data centers planned in the area, added demand could strain resources as the population grows by about 740,000 people by 2060.
Data centers often rely on water intensive cooling systems. In Georgia, where droughts have hit hard in recent years, this raises risks for rivers and aquifers.
Experts point to similar issues elsewhere. For instance, data centers in other states have led to higher nitrate levels in local water supplies, affecting communities.
Economic Boost Versus Local Burdens
Supporters argue the development will generate nearly $92 million in annual tax revenue by 2040. This influx could fund schools, roads, and public safety, easing the tax load on residents.
County manager Brad Johnson sees it as a way to diversify income. Right now, most taxes come from homeowners, and people often leave the county for shopping or work.
The project might attract more businesses too. It could turn Butts County into a hub, competing with nearby metro areas.
On the flip side, some residents fear hidden costs. Increased traffic, noise, and utility demands might outweigh the gains without careful planning.
Here are key projected benefits:
- Job creation in construction and tech sectors
- Expanded healthcare access with a new hospital
- Long term revenue to support community services
Community and Environmental Pushback
Local voices are split. Some welcome the growth, while others oppose it due to potential pollution and resource drain.
Environmental advocate Fletcher Sams from a river protection group calls for more transparency. He stresses the need to know exact power and cooling details to assess impacts.
Recent events in nearby counties show similar tensions. In Jones County, residents halted a 634 acre data center plan through community action, citing light pollution and water strain.
Statewide, a wave of data center proposals has led to moratoriums in places like Jones County, pausing new applications until 2026.
This table outlines water usage comparisons for data centers:
| Location | Daily Water Use (Gallons) | Impact on Local Supply |
|---|---|---|
| Butts County Project | 4.5 Million | Triples county usage |
| Typical US Data Center | 300,000 to 1 Million | Varies by size |
| Georgia Average Proposal | 1 to 2 Million | Strains river basins |
State Rules and Oversight Gaps
Georgia recently updated rules to review large data centers through the Department of Community Affairs. The changes aim to ensure better communication between local governments.
However, the process is advisory only. Final decisions rest with counties, leaving state level protections limited.
Critics say this fails to address cumulative effects on energy and water. During a recent pause in reviews, some projects advanced without full scrutiny.
The Butts County plan triggered a review because of its hospital component. Still, advocates push for stronger regulations to protect resources.
Looking Ahead to 2040 and Beyond
As Burt Jones campaigns for governor, this project ties into broader talks on Georgia’s tech boom. The state has seen a surge in data centers, driven by demand for cloud computing and AI.
Balancing growth with sustainability remains key. Other states like Oregon and New Mexico face similar water challenges from data centers, offering lessons for Georgia.
Readers, what do you think about this development? Share your views in the comments and spread the word on social media to keep the conversation going.
