Nashville Mayor Freddie O’Connell has filed legislation that would allow Metro to acquire property next to the Nashville Zoo through condemnation, citing the city’s need for the land.
The filing comes after concerns were raised over a proposed data center planned for property adjacent to the zoo.
“We’re filing this condemnation legislation because Metro has a legitimate need for this property,” O’Connell said. “I have carefully followed the concerns from the community and the Zoo and also remain deeply concerned about the proposed use. With the closure of Metro Southeast and departments, from the fire department to NDOT, needing expansion space and in transition, we have a variety of needs in Metro.”
The proposed data center has faced opposition from Nashville Zoo officials, who say the 69,000-square-foot project could affect the zoo, its animals, visitors, and the surrounding community.
Zoo leaders have said no environmental studies or impact assessments have been completed to evaluate potential effects. They also expressed concerns about the amount of electricity and water data centers typically require and the possible impact on local resources and the watershed.
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