Nashville mayor moves to use eminent domain to block data center next to Nashville Zoo
NASHVILLE, Tenn. (WTVF) — Nashville Mayor Freddie O'Connell announced Monday he will file legislation to use eminent domain to stop construction of a proposed data center next to the Nashville Zoo.
"I heard from neighbors, families, zoo supporters and people from across the city," O'Connell said. "I share those concerns about the proposed use of this property. I'm filing condemnation legislation that would allow Metro to acquire the property next to the zoo for public use."
The announcement follows months of pushback from neighbors and zoo advocates. Last week, Metro's Planning Commission backed new restrictions that could pause data center construction near the zoo.
The Nashville Zoo celebrated the mayor's announcement, calling it "a huge win" for families.
Statement from Nashville Zoo:
Nashville Zoo Is encouraged by the news that Mayor Freddie O’Connell is planning to evoke eminent domain in an effort to thwart the data center from being built next to our Zoo.
According to the eminent domain plan, Metro would condemn the MarketStreet property, purchase it at fair market value and then use it in a way that benefits the public. This would be a huge win for the families in this community and Nashville Zoo.
As the Mayor said, Metro has a legitimate need for this property. We hope that involving Metro Parks will be part of the ongoing conversations.
We are asking the public to please encourage your council members to support the Mayor's effort and continue the push behind new legislation to regulate all data centers as seen in BL2026-1391. The next public hearing on these important matters is on July 7th at 6pm at 1 Public House.
https://www.newschannel5.com/news/state/tennessee/davidson-county/nashville-mayor-moves-to-use-eminent-domain-to-block-data-center-next-to-nashville-zoo
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