Dear Editor,
A self-storage facility is seeking approval for an 18 megawatts data center in Franklin Gateway, a marginalized community in Marietta. Elected officials tout this proposal as a “win-win” because of the revenue generated from selling electricity to this facility, but the proposal is incomplete and there are immense environmental concerns.
Owner: “Prime Storage” (Saratoga Springs, NY)
Data Center brand: “Prime Edge”
Private Equity Fund: “Prime Holdings”
3rd party Operator: “Alosanar”
In reviewing parties’ websites, it appears as if it’s a done deal. The 1155 Powers Ferry Pl location is listed “near term” on the projected network map to serve as a “HUB” for smaller locations such as 155 Heathersett Dr Marietta, GA. They have already begun construction, with the inside of the building already demolished, ready for the data center. This demonstrates an immense lack of good faith.
There has been no environmental review. The site backs up to the protected Rottenwood Creek, raising wastewater concerns. There is also a high electricity demand for the cooling fans and the 8-10 generators that are expected to be tested monthly. This leads to intense health, noise, and emission concerns. The city’s own planning staff have concerns about lack of basic utility, noise, and wastewater details, as well as concerns of alignment with the comprehensive plan (this site is zoned for offices and commercial use, not industrial).
Marietta, Cobb, and Georgia residents overwhelmingly oppose this project! In fact, a bipartisan 70% of the US population object to data centers. Why, then, are city officials exempting this proposal from the July 2026 moratorium and still considering this proposition? Marietta residents deserve to know the truth behind the city’s lack of due diligence and the rush to approve the project. We should not capitulate to private equity firms from out of state.
APPEAL TO ELECTED CITY LEADERS:
- All proposals must have a thorough environmental review, ensuring the local community (including wildlife) will not be greatly harmed by the project, and residents must have ample education about the project, its potential impact, and time to voice concerns in public hearings.
- Create a citizens task force to study best practices and establish zoning and regulations for data centers.
- Any approval must stipulate a maximum connected IT load, maximum equipment sound output, and a requirement that expansion must return for a new hearing.
Respectfully,
Gretchen Krohn
Resident of Marietta, Ward 4B