Fisk University considering data center near campus

Community members packed Fisk University in June for a town hall on the school’s proposed Innovation Center, with many voicing concerns about a planned data center that has drawn increasing opposition in North Nashville.

Residents, alumni and local leaders questioned university officials about the project’s potential impacts, including noise, energy consumption, environmental concerns and its proximity to surrounding neighborhoods. While questions were submitted on note cards, emotions occasionally boiled over as attendees demanded to be heard.

State Sen. Charlane Oliver (D-Nashville) acknowledged the community’s long history of environmental injustice and industrial development.

“This is a community that has been hurting for decades,” Oliver said, adding that she does not currently support the proposal because key questions about its long-term impact remain unanswered.

Fisk President Dr. Agenia Clark emphasized that no final decisions have been made and said the proposed data center is part of a broader campus master plan.

“This isn’t something that’s been finalized,” Clark said. “We were being transparent and sharing what we’re envisioning for our future.”

According to the university, the proposed 100,000-square-foot Innovation Center would include approximately 70,000 square feet dedicated to data and technology operations and 30,000 square feet for academic space. Officials said the facility would operate at up to 30 megawatts while incorporating sustainable practices to minimize energy use, water consumption, noise and air pollution. Clark also said the university has not selected a development partner and ruled out using methane gas turbines.

Still, many attendees remained unconvinced. An online petition opposing the project has surpassed 16,000 signatures, with critics comparing the proposal to past infrastructure projects that displaced North Nashville communities.