Amazon's California Data Center Project Sparks Local Concerns

Amazon's new data center project in Gilroy, California, has drawn attention from local residents. The facility covers 22.7 hectares of farmland, and the approval process has been ongoing since the application was submitted in 2020. Resident Rosa Rodriguez said she was told the public comment period ended in 2024 when she tried to raise concerns.

According to the Wall Street Journal, Amazon is moving forward by following a land-use plan established 45 years ago, avoiding further review. Amazon says it's communicating with the community and has held open houses for feedback, adding that the project includes a wastewater recycling system. Mayor Greg Bozzo says the project will bring tax revenue and jobs to the city.