By: Maxwell Thorn

Americans are increasingly open to data center expansion, but they want something in return. In today’s digital age, data centers are the often-overlooked engines behind everything from video calls to streaming shows. As demand for data continues to grow, so does the need for more infrastructure to support it. But building more data centers is no longer a behind-the-scenes operation. These facilities are becoming more visible, and the public is paying attention.

The 2025 Airedale Data Center Neighborhood Survey suggests that support for new data centers is strong, though not unconditional. People are not automatically opposed to the presence of a data center near their home or workplace. However, that acceptance often depends on whether the development benefits the local community and aligns with environmental values. In short, the public is saying yes, but only if it’s done right.

Support for these projects is not automatic. The public now expects developers to act with responsibility, both socially and environmentally. Data centers cannot simply appear overnight without input or consideration for those who live nearby. Community members want their voices heard. They also want to see measurable benefits.

Support Depends on Local and Environmental Impact

According to the survey, 62% of Americans say their perception of data centers tends to improve if developers invest in the community. That could mean funding local schools, building parks, upgrading infrastructure, or supporting small businesses. People want to know that these large and often costly facilities will offer something back. In the eyes of the public, local investment is increasingly seen as necessary—it is expected.

This desire for mutual benefit reflects a larger trend in public expectations. Residents no longer view infrastructure as something separate from daily life. Instead, they see it as a shared investment. If a data center is going to consume local resources, the community hopes to see improvements in return.

The survey also found that 55% of Americans support tax incentives for developers, but with an important condition. They primarily support those incentives if the data centers prioritize sustainability. That means efficient energy use, reduced emissions, responsible water use, and long-term environmental planning. Americans are growing more concerned about the environmental footprint of digital infrastructure. They want growth, but not at the cost of air quality, water usage, or climate impact.

These numbers send a strong signal. Developers cannot rely on outdated strategies. A community-first, sustainability-focused approach is becoming essential to earn public trust.

A Defining Moment for Developers

The current moment presents a significant opportunity for data center developers. There is room to grow. Demand is high. Communities are willing to engage. But all of that depends largely on how developers choose to proceed.

By incorporating sustainability into the earliest phases of planning, developers can better align with public expectations. That might mean designing facilities powered by renewable energy, creating buffers to reduce noise, or implementing technology that minimizes energy waste. These decisions must not be afterthoughts. They should be central to the development process.

Investing in local communities is another area with potential for immediate impact. Whether it’s through jobs, infrastructure improvements, or sponsorship of local events, developers have the chance to create meaningful connections. These investments not only improve public perception, but they also foster long-term goodwill. When people feel included and supported, they are more likely to support future projects.

Developers must also prioritize transparency. Communities want clear information about how a data center will impact traffic, utilities, and the environment. They want to know how developers plan to mitigate disruptions. When companies share information and engage directly with the public, they strengthen trust.

The path to expansion is not closed—it is open to those who are willing to listen and act. Developers who fail to meet these new standards could face public opposition and potential delays. Those who rise to the occasion can lead the next phase of responsible growth.

The Future of Data Centers Is Accountability

The next generation of data centers will not be judged by performance alone. They will be judged by their footprint. That includes how much energy they use, how they engage with local communities, and whether they minimize their environmental impact. These metrics matter more to the public than ever before.

Gone are the days when uptime was the only measure of success. Today, it is about more than just staying online. It is about how a facility fits into the broader fabric of the community and the planet. People want progress, but they want it to be responsible and inclusive.

The Airedale survey underscores this. There is considerable support for data center development across the United States. But that support is not automatic. It must be earned through thoughtful planning and meaningful community engagement. Developers who embrace this responsibility will not only find support, but they may also become leaders in a new era of growth.

As demand for digital services continues to rise, so does the importance of public trust. Communities are watching. They want to see developers who care about more than profit. They want to see long-term thinking and a willingness to contribute to shared goals.

The message is clear. Build responsibly or risk falling behind. In the years ahead, the data centers that succeed will likely be the ones that prioritize sustainability, transparency, and local impact. The future is bright—but only for those who choose to build it with care.