Brad Paisley Opposes AI Data Center Near Nashville Zoo
Country music artist Brad Paisley has urged the community to take action against a planned AI data center located just 50 meters from the Nashville Zoo, describing it as an “absolute nightmare scenario” and warning that, in his words, “It’s going to be a huge monster.”
In a video shared on Instagram with the zoo on Saturday, he opened with a strong statement about the proposed data center, expressing his concerns about its implications.
“First of all, they don’t have the power to build this,” he asserted. “They don’t have the water. Water isn’t what’s there. It’s truly a huge eyesore, sure to devalue both the zoo and the surrounding area.”
Paisley emphasized that it’s “not too late” to stop such AI data centers from being constructed.
“The zoo brings a lot of joy to our community,” he noted, adding, “It’s a world-class place. It holds family memories for many of us. The zoo is even expanding with plans to enhance its offerings for everyone.”
He then called on his two million followers to sign a petition aimed at halting the construction of a 69,000-square-foot facility.
“I really hope they build somewhere else,” said Paisley, who resides in Nashville. “Let’s keep Nashville beautiful and wonderful.”
The Nashville Zoo currently hosts over 3,700 animals from more than 350 species and saw 1.4 million visitors last year.
According to a recent Gallup poll, there is significant public opposition to the establishment of AI data centers in local communities.
Paisley’s video came out shortly after the Nashville Zoo started a petition. The issue gained national traction after it was shared on social media, amassing over 331,824 signatures and more than 126,599 shares by Monday afternoon.
“AI data centers are emerging at a concerning rate,” stated the zoo in its petition, expressing fears that without intervention, the next facility could be situated alarmingly close to a delicate and rare collection of animals.
The Nashville Zoo also pointed out that “there are no regulations or safeguards” regarding the proposed data center and that “nobody is providing research or environmental impact assessments.”
“They claim that the community has nothing to worry about and that building a data center near one of the region’s most sensitive environments is safe,” the zoo added.
“Data centers require significant resources, both electricity and water, which could strain local power grids and deplete natural resources,” they continued. “We’re concerned about potential irreparable harm to the animals we aim to protect.”
The Nashville Zoo is asking the community to “stand against this data center” and to support their petition “to protect vulnerable animals and the environment we cherish.”
As Silicon Valley expands its footprint to build AI data centers across various regions, it’s essential to recognize the impact on neighboring communities and the pressures placed on local governance.
