San Diego officials oppose proposed mega data center

San Diego city and state officials, supported by community activists, have expressed strong opposition to a proposed 400-megawatt data center in the historic Old Town area. The project, considered by the Manchester Financial Group, would be located on the site of the Naval Information Warfare Systems Command (NAVWAR).

Under a proposed public-private partnership, the developer would build new facilities for NAVWAR on a portion of the property and redevelop the remaining 60 acres for housing, retail, and commercial use. However, officials noted that because the site is federal land, the city lacks direct input on land use. Council President Joe LaCava criticized the proposal, stating that data centers consume significant electricity and water without providing sufficient benefits to local residents.

In response to broader concerns, Mayor Todd Gloria signed an executive order to pause the construction of all data centers within the city. Despite this, officials warned that a moratorium might not prevent development on the naval base, as the Navy is not required to follow local zoning regulations.