College Station, September 11, 2025
News Summary
Residents of College Station are voicing strong opposition to a proposed 200-acre data center by Priority Power, driven by misunderstandings around its use for cryptocurrency mining. The company clarifies that the center will focus on data management and AI while promising significant financial benefits, including job creation and increased tax revenue. However, concerns remain about noise and infrastructure impacts, leading to over 2,000 signatures against the project ahead of a city council meeting.
College Station Residents Oppose Proposed Data Center Amid Misconceptions about Cryptocurrency Mining
The College Station City Council is preparing to address significant public concerns regarding a proposed 200-acre data center by Priority Power during a council meeting on September 11. The project has generated strong opposition from local residents, fueled by misunderstandings about its intent, particularly regarding cryptocurrency mining.
Priority Power’s CEO, Brandon Schwertner, aims to clarify these misconceptions by emphasizing that the proposed facility will not be used for Bitcoin mining. Instead, he asserts the focus will be on data management and artificial intelligence (AI). To alleviate community concerns, he plans to request the city council to remove any references to cryptocurrency in the land agreement.
The planned data center will be situated near the Midtown area, adjacent to the Costco store. Schwertner argues that the development will not only create jobs and generate tax revenue but also support Texas A&M University. The projected financial benefits could bring the city up to $30 million and annual tax revenues ranging between $10 to $22 million.
However, opposition has grown among residents who point to negative experiences in other Texas locales, particularly Granbury, where Bitcoin mining operations have led to severe noise disturbances. Reports from similar facilities indicate that such noise disruptions can significantly impact residents’ quality of life, leading to sleep disturbances and health issues.
In response to these concerns, Schwertner has assured residents that the technological advancements and noise ordinances in place in College Station will prevent any similar problems. He emphasizes that noise is not expected to be an issue if the project proceeds. Additionally, the data center is projected to source its power externally, which Schwertner claims will ensure there is no impact on the local residents’ electricity bills.
City staff have recommended the city council approve Priority Power’s agreement, noting the potential increase in financial revenue for the city. However, concerns remain, especially regarding infrastructure, water use, and the noise that could come from backup generators linked to the data center. Residents also worry that the sale may eliminate plans for an extension of Corporate Parkway, which could hinder future development opportunities in the area.
Councilman Bob Yancy has recognized the community’s worries, notably about the center’s proximity to residential neighborhoods. He advocates for a balance between the financial benefits expected from the project and the need to preserve neighborhood integrity. To date, more than 2,000 petition signatures have been collected opposing the data center, indicating strong public dissent.
Residents have criticized the city council’s handling of public comments and community engagement related to the proposal, believing that the council’s timing lacks transparency. The upcoming meeting is anticipated to draw substantial attendance from local residents, many of whom are expected to express their opposition vocally during the discussion.
Key Features of the Proposed Data Center
- Location: Near Midtown, behind Costco
- Size: 200 acres
- Focus: Data management and artificial intelligence, not cryptocurrency mining
- Financial Benefits: Up to $30 million for College Station, annual tax revenue of $10 to $22 million
- Noise Concerns: Assurances provided regarding adherence to local noise ordinances
- Power Source: Externally sourced power to avoid impact on residents’ electricity bills
- Community Engagement: Over 2,000 petition signatures opposing the project
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the main purpose of the proposed data center?
The main purpose of the proposed data center is to focus on data management and artificial intelligence, rather than cryptocurrency mining.
Where will the data center be located?
The data center will be situated near the Midtown area behind the Costco store.
What are the expected financial benefits of the project?
The project is expected to yield up to $30 million for the city, with annual tax revenues estimated between $10 to $22 million.
What concerns do residents have about the data center?
Residents have expressed concerns regarding noise pollution from backup generators, infrastructure impacts, and the center’s proximity to residential areas.
How many residents have signed petitions opposing the project?
Over 2,000 petition signatures have been collected opposing the proposed data center.
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Additional Resources
- KBTX News
- Wikipedia: Data Center
- KXXV News
- Google Search: College Station Data Center
- WTAW News
- Google Scholar: Data Center Economics
- The Eagle News
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Cryptocurrency Mining
- KBTX News
- Google News: College Station Data Center
Author: STAFF HERE COLLEGE WRITER
The COLLEGE STATION STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HERECollegeStation.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in College Station, Brazos County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as the Brazos Valley Fair & Rodeo, Chilifest, and Aggie Muster. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Bryan-College Station Chamber of Commerce and United Way of the Brazos Valley, plus leading businesses in education, biotechnology, and retail that power the local economy such as Texas A&M University, Fujifilm Diosynth Biotechnologies, and H-E-B. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREAustinTX.com, HEREDallas.com, HEREHouston.com, and HERESanAntonio.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Texas's dynamic landscape.
