Brad Paisley Slams Proposed Data Center Near Nashville Zoo, Calls It an “Absolute Nightmare” and Backs Petition
By Website Content Manager
Paisley insisted that the project must not be allowed to go forward.
Brad Paisley is calling on fans to take action against a proposed large-scale data center planned for construction just about 50 yards from the Nashville Zoo.
In a video shared on social media, the country artist described the project as an “absolute nightmare scenario” and urged supporters to sign an online petition, which has already surpassed 358,000 signatures. He also emphasized, “this can’t happen,” directing viewers to join the opposition effort.
Paisley explained that the proposed facility, in his view, is not suitable for the location. He argued that the developers lack the necessary resources, including sufficient power and water, and said the structure would become a massive and visually disruptive presence that would negatively affect both the zoo and the surrounding community.
He also highlighted the importance of the Nashville Zoo, describing it as a major source of enjoyment for families and one of the most highly regarded zoos globally. According to Paisley, the institution continues to expand and improve, making the proposed development particularly concerning for its future.
He encouraged residents to sign the petition if they share his concerns, urging that the project be relocated elsewhere in order to preserve the city’s appeal and the zoo’s value as a community landmark.
Meanwhile, the Nashville Zoo recently released an update indicating that new planning documents suggest the project may be significantly larger than originally disclosed. The documents reportedly point to a second building exceeding 202,000 square feet—around three times the size of the first structure—along with a 40-megawatt capacity and an additional electrical substation. Combined, the facilities could require up to 50 megawatts of power, enough to supply approximately 50,000 homes.
In response to these developments, the zoo has filed formal legal action. Land use attorney and former Metro Codes Director Bill Herbert has also submitted a zoning appeal seeking to challenge the approved permits for the project.
The zoo continues to urge local residents to contact Metro Nashville Council members and Mayor Freddie O’Connell in support of BL2026-1391 as efforts to block the development move forward.