Drew Small

DC Blox purchased a 23-acre property next to the Nashville Zoo, but local regulations and a Tennessee state vesting law create uncertainty about building a data center there. A final Metro Council vote on data center regulations and the timing of permit submissions could determine whether DC Blox is allowed to proceed under existing or new rules.

Protesters in Nashville rallied against MarketStreet Enterprises, urging the company to cancel its land sale to DC BLOX, a data center developer planning a facility near the Nashville Zoo. Demonstrators cited concerns over pollution, noise impacting zoo animals, and lack of environmental impact studies, while DC BLOX disputed these claims and emphasized compliance with industry standards. A Metro Council vote on zoning requirements for data centers is expected soon.

A town hall meeting is scheduled for June 24 to discuss a proposed data center near the Nashville Zoo, hosted by Drew Small to address community concerns about environmental impacts and zoning changes. DC Blox, the company behind the project, claims its design will minimize noise, water use, and community costs, but critics warn of potential air quality issues, water contamination, and higher utility expenses.

Nashville Mayor Freddie O’Connell supports a temporary moratorium on large data centers while legislation is developed, aligning with Councilmember Courtney Johnston’s proposal. Two council bills—one for a moratorium and another for permanent zoning—remain pending. Activists criticize the mayor’s executive order as insufficient, arguing it lacks enforceable measures.