Development News for Little Rock, Arkansas

Little Rock City Board Passes Data Center Zoning Ordinance Amidst Public Debate

The Little Rock City Board of Directors considered an ordinance to establish clear standards for data center development. The ordinance was read three times and ultimately passed. This followed extensive public comment regarding the potential impacts of data centers on water usage, environment, noise, infrastructure, and local economy. Representatives from Google, Energy Arkansas, Little Rock Water Reclamation Authority, and Central Arkansas Water presented information on their roles and the project's feasibility. Despite public concerns and requests for a moratorium, the board moved forward with the ordinance as a starting point for regulation, acknowledging that it could be amended as more information becomes available and as further studies are completed. The ordinance establishes zoning classifications and general penalties for violations, drawing from existing city codes for enforcement.