Project Blue: Tensions ran high Tuesday night during a community meeting at Mica Mountain High School, where local residents voiced sharp opposition and cautious support for a proposed data center known as Project Blue. The $100 million facility, planned near I-10 in southeast Tucson, promises significant economic benefits—but critics say its water demands are too great for the region’s fragile desert ecosystem.
What is Project Blue?
Developed by Beal Infrastructure, Project Blue is expected to create thousands of construction jobs and bring long-term economic growth to the area. A key part of the plan includes building an 18-mile pipeline to supply reclaimed water to the center. However, developers admitted the center’s annual water use would equal that of two 18-hole golf courses.
Still in early planning stages, the project would require the Tucson City Council to annex the currently Pima County–owned land. A study session is scheduled for August 6, with a possible vote on annexation set for August 19.
Water Worries Take Center Stage
Residents like Ton and Leslie Clawson Gonzalez expressed alarm over the data center’s potential impact on local water resources.
“When we choose to live in the desert, we accept certain risks,” said Leslie Clawson Gonzalez. “But this project could tip the balance. Our water is too precious.”
Environmental concerns dominated the evening’s discussion, with many skeptical about the project’s long-term sustainability in one of the nation’s driest regions.
Labor Unions See Opportunity
Not all voices were critical. Representatives from a local construction union said the project could be transformative for Tucson’s workforce.
“This is 10 years of feeding our families,” said one union member. “There are no other projects of this size in Tucson right now.”
For many, the project symbolizes economic potential amid a slowing job market in the region.
Mayor and Council Still Undecided
Tucson Mayor Regina Romero, who attended the meeting, said she remains neutral for now.
“I want to make sure that I’m making up my mind based on facts,” Romero said. “What are the benefits? What are the concerns? I need to weigh both carefully.”
Four councilmember votes are required to move the project forward. If the land is annexed, final approval of the data center would follow in a separate vote.
Next Steps
Another public meeting to discuss Project Blue is scheduled for Thursday, July 31, at 5:30 p.m., though a location has not yet been confirmed.
