A proposed hyperscale industrial data center threatens health, quality of life, and property values in the greater Alachua area.

The prospect of a 104-acre data center being developed near San Felasco, specifically at 12705 NW US Highway 441 in the City of Alachua, has raised concerns in the local community. 

This site is being marketed for AI data center use, emphasizing its large, contiguous acreage and its capacity for high electrical load and abundant water resources. Such use would not provide significant jobs or revenue, but would take advantage of economic incentives offered by the County.

The proposed location would impact the San Felasco Hammock Preserve State Park in addition to residential communities.

A data center of this size would enormously increase energy consumption and use up to 5 million gallons of water per day.

Some specific hazards are:

• noise pollution due to massive cooling systems and generators. 
The  24/7 sound of a typical data center is similar to a helicopter hovering in the distance or heavy machinery running.  

It will also generate low frequency, inaudible sound waves, able to penetrate walls, affecting a 2 mile radius, which  have been found to cause heart palpitations in children, cardiovascular stress,  migraines, chronic cortisol production, and inner ear damage.

• extremely high electrical load will most likely cause an increase in the cost of electricity for all Alachuans.

• light pollution: high-intensity outdoor security and parking lot lighting creating a "stadium-like" glow which which would harm both human health and local ecosystems.

• lower property values due to the impact of the above issues.

• use of tax revenue for incentives such as infrastructure, meant for attracting economy-boosting businesses.

We urge decision-makers to reject the installation of a data center that would compromise the integrity of San Felasco and its surrounding communities.

Please sign this petition to prevent irresponsible development that destroys our cherished natural spaces. Let us stand together to protect the San Felasco area from unsuitable and harmful industrial growth.