Commission backs data-center expansion, Encore substation modifications

The Planning and Zoning Commission unanimously approved a zone-change/concept plan that adds roughly 13.65 acres to an existing planned development to allow additional data-center pads and associated roadwork, and separately approved a site plan for an Encore electrical substation expansion.

Staff explained the Gallen Data Center request (ZON25-09-0035) would allow construction of additional pads and a new connector road that would link Weatherford Road to Miller Road and ultimately tie into Old Fort Worth Road; the parcel sits near Highway 67/287. Development Review Committee staff recommended approval; the item will also appear before the City Council for voluntary annexation and the record will include two written oppositions for council review.

Staff noted the applicant’s plan includes a phase 1 of buildings under engineering review and a conceptual phase 2 with unspecified future uses. Commissioner Angela Lucky Vaughn moved approval per DRC recommendations and the motion passed unanimously.

Separately, the commission approved STP25090034, an expansion of an existing Encore substation to replace equipment and expand the footprint to meet local capacity needs. Staff said prior substations had received similar landscape and pavement variances to avoid interference with utility infrastructure, and the DRC recommended approval.