Proposed $5.18 Billion Data Center in Georgia Near Family Cemetery Since 1800s

The Muscogee County planning commission voted 5-1 to approve the project with an expanded buffer zone from 75 feet to 500 feet.

A property owner stated that the buffer is insufficient. Once a project completes the local permitting process, including zoning hearings and special use permits, residents' opportunities for intervention are limited, according to a chief operating officer at a construction company.

The executive stated that remaining options primarily involve litigation, which is expensive and rarely successful if proper procedures were followed.

He noted that a judge may temporarily delay implementation during litigation but that local land-use decisions are generally difficult to reverse. Litigation can sometimes lead to concessions such as additional noise mitigation or buffer zones, even if it does not halt the project.

A legal expert stated that private funding bypasses certain studies and assessments, while federal funding allows for litigation over environmental reviews.

However, a 2025 executive order permits federal authorities to bypass environmental assessments in some cases.

near the proposed site are assessing potential financial impacts.

A property owner faces a monthly mortgage payment until 2044 and is considering whether to sell. A legal expert, who has provided services to rural landowners for 13 years through a nonprofit, stated that it is too early to determine effects on property values due to the recent data center boom.

The expert predicted that values near such facilities may decline over time as effects on natural resources, water, and land use become apparent.

No clear patterns have emerged from existing data centers regarding property values. The project's proximity to residential areas raises questions about long-term economic effects for affected property owners. Next steps for the project include construction following approvals, with potential litigation from residents.

The development is funded privately, reducing certain federal oversight options. Local stakeholders continue to monitor environmental and community impacts as the project advances.