Proposed Data Center in Mooresville Sparks Community Debate

Plans to transform a 400-acre property near Mooresville, North Carolina, into a data center campus have ignited a heated debate among local residents and the Earnhardt family.

 

Tract, a data center development firm, aims to establish the Mooresville Technology Park on land currently zoned for residential and agricultural use.

 

The proposed site, situated between Patterson Farm Road and Rustic Road, is owned by Teresa Earnhardt, widow of NASCAR legend Dale Earnhardt.

 

The project envisions up to five buildings totaling 1.5 million square feet of data center space, with construction potentially commencing in 2028 and initial power delivery by 2029.

 

Over the next two decades, the development could see investments exceeding $30 billion.

 

While proponents highlight economic benefits, including the creation of approximately 195 high-paying technology jobs, opposition has been vocal.

 

Kerry Earnhardt, Dale Earnhardt's son, expressed his disapproval, stating, "My Dad would be livid for his name to be associated in this title!"

 

He further conveyed his disappointment over the family's involvement in the rezoning request.

 

Local residents have also raised concerns about the project's impact on the community's rural character.

 

During public meetings, nearly 200 individuals protested the rezoning request, citing potential noise pollution, environmental effects, and the transformation of their residential area into an industrial zone.

 

In response to these concerns, the Mooresville Board of Commissioners has postponed the rezoning vote to allow for further research and community engagement.

 

Mayor Chris Carney emphasized the need for comprehensive information before proceeding, stating, "We have several questions that need answers. And so, until we get that, we're not going to schedule that."

 

The situation underscores the complexities of balancing economic development with community preservation.

 

As Mooresville grapples with this contentious proposal, the outcome will likely have lasting implications for the town's future growth and identity.