"We pissed off a lot of people": Giant data center plan cut 50% amid protests

# AI Data Center Project Cut in Half After Community Pushback A massive data center development in Utah that would have consumed enormous amounts of local water has been scaled back 50% due to fierce community opposition. Residents were most concerned about the project draining water from an already stressed Great Salt Lake, with thousands paying fees to formally object to the plan. The developer now says he regrets not being more upfront with locals earlier, a lesson that highlights how AI infrastructure projects need community support to move forward.