‘Very scary’: Whitehaven residents voice fears over new xAI complex
Scott Madaus
Memphis residents and lawmakers voice their concerns over the xAI facility in Whitehaven.
MEMPHIS, Tenn. — A new xAI data center is under construction in Whitehaven, drawing concern from residents and a state lawmaker over environmental risks and a lack of public transparency.
The facility, located at 5420 Tulane Road, is expected to span more than 2 million square feet. It will be Memphis’ second xAI mega-complex, according to state Rep. Justin J. Pearson.
Pearson said Tuesday, June 10, that the project is located near John P. Freeman Optional School, residential neighborhoods and churches.
“They have not held one public hearing. They have not held one town hall,” Pearson said. “They keep on doing secret and private meetings with elected officials or with the Chairman’s Circle of the Chamber of Commerce, but they’re not meeting people.”
Ashley Owens, who lives across the street from the construction site, said she is concerned about the facility’s potential impact on community health.
“Knowing that it’s so close to home and a lot of people could be put at risk is very scary,” Owens said. “I don’t think it’s a good idea if it’s going to cause health concerns or if it’s going to make people ill.”
Pearson said there is public speculation that the facility could be powered by gas turbines, similar to a previous xAI development. He said residents are learning about the project only through press releases issued by the Memphis Chamber of Commerce.
Pearson called for public engagement and full transparency as the project continues.
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