Red Oak Families Fight Data Center Surge

Residents of Red Oak are clashing with developers over a rapid expansion of data centers in the North Texas corridor. Families in the area formed a group called No More Data Centers to oppose new construction near their homes. They report that new facilities are appearing closer to residential neighborhoods than before.

The conflict has intensified as the region became a top destination for these facilities. Cushman & Wakefield analyst John McWilliams stated that the market has been successful for other operators, making it more attractive. His firm’s study ranks Dallas first globally for data center development. The report cites available land, power supply, and ongoing construction projects as key factors.

Data from Cleanview and Data Center Map shows nine operational data centers in Red Oak. An additional 14 are in the planning stage. McWilliams predicts the number of facilities will double within three to five years.

The corridor spans roughly 20 minutes south of Dallas between Interstate 35 and Interstate 45. It passes through Lancaster and Wilmer. In Lancaster, three centers are under construction and eight are planned. Wilmer has one operational center and 11 in planning.

Statewide, Governor Greg Abbott suspended state-level permits for data centers. This pause will last until regulatory bodies complete audits of all large-scale projects seeking to connect to the state power grid. The move aims to assess the impact on the electrical infrastructure.

Krystel Castillo, a researcher at the University of Texas at San Antonio Center for Energy, noted that grid expansion requires years of investment and planning. She said the process demands participation from the government, data centers, and society to find a solution. Her institute simulates how data center demand affects power supply.

Skybox development lead Haynes Strader told reporters there is significant electrical connection capacity in the south Dallas area. His company is currently building a mega center in Dallas. Strader said the firm focuses on industrial zones rather than areas near homes. He added that their centers contribute millions in tax revenue to the city.