From Jacksonville to McDonough: My Search for Quality Data Center Growth

I’m not anti-growth or anti–data centers, I’m pro–quality growth. I want to better understand how data infrastructure impacts our communities and economy.

I once worked for years in a data center in Jacksonville, FL that most people didn’t even realize was there.

Today, that same center is still there and now it’s surrounded by townhomes, new developments, and even an arts market that runs all summer long. It makes me wonder if residents even realize the data center is part of their neighborhood.

That raises an important question: is the challenge really the existence of data centers, or is it when they’re built within established residential communities? I think we can all agree that building data centers near existing homes or communities brings unique challenges, many of which we’re still learning to understand.

That’s why I’m joining Georgia WAND’s Community-Led Data Center Tour this Friday, November 7 in Fayetteville. We’ll hear directly from residents and advocates about the real-life impact of data centers on local communities.

📍 Meet at: Hopeful Anglican Church, 1086 New Hope Rd, Fayetteville, GA
🕙 Time: 10:00 AM – 1:00 PM (Tour + Lunch)
🍽️ Lunch provided
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Let’s stay informed and make sure growth in our communities is smart, sustainable, and equitable.

Let’s keep building a better McDonough, together.