Rockdale County Planning Commission Public Hearing 07/09/2026

The Rockdale County Planning Commission held a public hearing on July 9, 2026, primarily focused on zoning and land use requests related to a large data center project known as Project Rock Forge. The commission considered a preliminary plat for a residential subdivision and a significant rezoning application to allow a 282-acre data center campus with seven buildings and associated infrastructure. The discussion included detailed presentations on the project's environmental impact, water and sewer capacity, traffic, noise, and community benefits. Public comments were divided, with proponents emphasizing economic growth, tax base expansion, and modern sustainable technology, while opponents raised concerns about water usage, environmental effects, noise, property values, and insufficient community notification. The commission ultimately voted to approve some future land use and rezoning items but expressed the need for additional information and further study before final decisions. The meeting also included the election of the planning commission chair and vice chair.