But Project Blue is a LARGE data center!
Project Blue is a secretive development proposed by a venture capital firm to build the largest data center complex in the state near the Pima County Fairgrounds to be occupied by an as yet unnamed customer.
There have been a number of promises made to Pima County and the City of Tucson that were convincing enough that the Pima County Board of Supervisors narrowly approved the project this week (though the swing vote, Supervisor Matt Heinz, has now changed his mind after the promise that the data center wouldn't increase electricity costs was broken by TEP on the same day the Supervisors voted. It would increase Tucson electric bills by 14%!) The project still needs City of Tucson Mayor and Council approval for the water component of the project, so it can still be stopped.
The developer promises no environmental impact because they are going to fund an expansion of reclaimed water service to the area of the project, but that ignores the fact that reclaimed water is being considered as a potential future potable water source if water supplies continue to dwindle and a portion of the reclaimed water is currently being used for riparian environment restoration along the Santa Cruz River. Adding a huge water user to Tucson Water's service area is bound to impact future water security. The other promises from the developers to fund projects that will increase the water supply in Tucson are assuming that it's possible to create water by spending enough money. You can't drink cash!
Reach out to your City Councilmember and demand that they vote against extending water service to this ill-conceived project. A theoretical gain in economic prosperity is not worth the risk of future water shortages.
SIGN THIS PETITION:
https://www.change.org/p/tell-tucson-city-council-to-stop-project-blue-ai-center-in-tucson?signed=true
Tucson Clean and Beautiful suggests these actions:
SIGN THIS PETITION:
https://www.change.org/p/tell-tucson-city-council-to-stop-project-blue-ai-center-in-tucson?signed=true
Tucson Clean and Beautiful suggests these actions:
Discover the rapid rise of U.S. data centers, with over $1 trillion invested, and see how this growth affects our environment and communities. Learn the stories behind the impact, explore ways you can get involved, and make your voice heard! We encourage everyone to do their research, stay engaged, and advocate for responsible tech development. 🤖🏜️
1. Identify Your Ward Councilmember: Find out who represents your neighborhood. Addressing your concerns directly to them can be especially impactful.
2. Attend Public Meetings: Keep an eye on scheduled public hearings, city council meetings, or planning hearings related to the project. Presenting your concerns in person or submitting written comments can make a difference.
3. Write Letters or Emails: Compose clear, respectful messages outlining your opposition or concerns about the development. Highlight how it might affect your community, environment, or local resources.
4. Engage with Planning & Development Services: Contact the City of Tucson department for information on review processes, comment periods, and upcoming hearings.
5. Coordinate with Others: Consider organizing or joining local groups or coalitions. Collective voices often carry more weight and demonstrate broad community interest.
6. Contact Pima County Officials: Community members in Tucson can reach out to Pima County officials to express their concerns and oppose the construction of the new data center.
7. Stay Informed on Utility Regulations: If power consumption or utility impacts concern you, reaching out to the Arizona Corporation Commission can provide additional avenues for advocacy. Visit at www.azcc.gov
Remember, active and informed participation helps shape outcomes that reflect your community’s needs! And don’t forget to utilize your platform!
1. Identify Your Ward Councilmember: Find out who represents your neighborhood. Addressing your concerns directly to them can be especially impactful.
2. Attend Public Meetings: Keep an eye on scheduled public hearings, city council meetings, or planning hearings related to the project. Presenting your concerns in person or submitting written comments can make a difference.
3. Write Letters or Emails: Compose clear, respectful messages outlining your opposition or concerns about the development. Highlight how it might affect your community, environment, or local resources.
4. Engage with Planning & Development Services: Contact the City of Tucson department for information on review processes, comment periods, and upcoming hearings.
5. Coordinate with Others: Consider organizing or joining local groups or coalitions. Collective voices often carry more weight and demonstrate broad community interest.
6. Contact Pima County Officials: Community members in Tucson can reach out to Pima County officials to express their concerns and oppose the construction of the new data center.
7. Stay Informed on Utility Regulations: If power consumption or utility impacts concern you, reaching out to the Arizona Corporation Commission can provide additional avenues for advocacy. Visit at www.azcc.gov
Remember, active and informed participation helps shape outcomes that reflect your community’s needs! And don’t forget to utilize your platform!
