BIRMINGHAM, Ala. (WBRC) – Construction has begun on a Nebius AI factory data center off Lakeshore Parkway in Birmingham’s Oxmoor Valley neighborhood, and residents living across the street say they have concerns about what the project means for them.
Aerial views of the site show dozens of excavators and heavy construction equipment spread across the nearly 80-acre property. Work is set to resume at 8 a.m. Thursday.
Dozens of Birmingham residents rallied against a proposed AI factory off Lakeshore Parkway, gathering to protest a project they say threatens their quality of life.(WBRC)Neighbors cite noise, water, and utility concerns
Neighbors said their main concerns center on construction noise, water use and how the completed AI factory will affect them once it is operational.
Nebius has previously said the finished facility will use noise-reduction technology, that water use will be minimal and that residents will not see any impact to their electric bills.
Zackary Pace, who lives near the data center, said the promises have not fully eased his worries.
“Just because we need our electricity and our water so I can understand that they’re being concerned about it,” Pace said. “You know, I have a son so that’s important that everything works out the way it’s supposed to work out.”
Location of proposed Nebius data center in Birmingham(WBRC)Lawsuit filed; judge allows construction to continue
Two neighbors have filed a lawsuit seeking to stop the project. A judge ruled that construction can continue for now. A hearing is scheduled for Friday to determine whether the lawsuit can move forward.
To address noise concerns, the construction company has agreed to limit certain activities to normal business hours.
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