Google Data Center Announces Plans to Pave Over Protected Wetlands
"It was determined that meeting the project purpose and completely avoiding water resources was not feasible." The post Google Data Center Announces Plans to Pave Over Protected Wetlands appeared first on Futurism .
A $2 billion hyperscale data center project, known as "Project Zodiac," is causing concern in Fort Wayne, Indiana, as Google subsidiary Hatchworks LLC plans to pave over four acres of protected wetlands. Hatchworks submitted an application to purchase 4.26 acres of forested wetland, with approximately 2.13 acres set to be transformed into three buildings, wastewater pipes, and electrical infrastructure.
While four acres may not seem significant, the development would encroach upon Indiana's vital floodplains and the natural habitat of diverse species. The wetlands also act as a natural basin for rainwater, protecting nearby areas from flooding and soil erosion. Google's Hatchworks argues that eliminating the wetlands is necessary for the project, stating that they could not avoid impacting the marshland without compromising the data center's layout and dimensions.
The proposal will face a virtual public hearing, with the developers aiming to commence construction on September 14, despite the potential backlash from the community.
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