PSO announces new data center project near Owasso with local community support

The Tulsa Metropolitan Area Planning Commission convened on June 4, 2025, to discuss a significant development project that aims to enhance the local economy and infrastructure. The meeting featured a presentation detailing the utility plans and conceptual site layout for a new data center complex, which is expected to have a substantial impact on the region.

The project is strategically located near existing city of Tulsa water lines, ensuring that it will not disrupt water supply for nearby residential or rural customers. The proposed site includes multiple data centers, each approximately 230,000 square feet, along with an office building of about 30,000 square feet. The layout has been designed to maximize distance from residential areas, with the nearest PSO substation located over 400 feet away.

Visual aids were presented, including aerial views and site plans, to illustrate the project's integration into the existing landscape. The development is positioned along East 76th Street North, a vital commercial corridor connecting Highway 75 to Owasso, which is expected to facilitate increased traffic and business activity in the area.

Community engagement has been a priority for the developers, who have held discussions with local stakeholders, including the city of Owasso and Wausau Public Schools. Both entities expressed strong support for the project, highlighting its potential to boost local employment and educational opportunities, particularly in STEM fields. Tulsa Tech also indicated interest in collaborating on training programs for future employees of the data centers.

During the public comment portion of the meeting, several speakers voiced their support for the project, emphasizing its economic benefits and job creation potential. Concerns were raised regarding energy consumption and water usage, particularly in relation to the cooling needs of the data centers. In response, project representatives assured attendees that the development would utilize advanced water recycling methods, significantly reducing overall consumption and minimizing environmental impact.

The commission concluded the meeting with a request for approval of the project, which has already received favorable recommendations from city staff. The developers expressed confidence in the project's design and community benefits, urging the commission to move forward with the approval process. The meeting underscored the collaborative efforts between local government, businesses, and educational institutions to foster economic growth in the Tulsa metropolitan area.