Nashville uses eminent domain to block data center near zoo

Nashville's Metro Council voted to authorize the use of eminent domain to purchase land owned by DC Blox, blocking the company's plan to build a data center next to the Nashville Zoo, the mayor's office said. The vote gives the city the legal option to acquire the property through condemnation but does not commit Metro to buying it. Under state law, Metro would likely have to pay at least $37 million for the property even though DC Blox paid approximately $23 million for it. The city must first obtain an appraisal before entering negotiations, and a judge could determine the final amount if the two sides cannot agree. Eminent domain cases typically take 12 to 18 months. Neighbors and community members had opposed the project, citing its proximity to the zoo and what they described as DC Blox's failure to conduct community outreach or submit compliant permit applications. The mayor's office said the property could serve multiple Metro needs including an elections office, a health clinic and general government office space. DC Blox said it remains committed to building its data center at the site, setting up a potential legal fight.