State Raises Concerns Over Proposed Polk County AI Data Center

Florida Department of Commerce cites 'significant risks' to energy, water, and infrastructure in letter to Fort Meade officials

Apr. 17, 2026 at 4:54pm

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A highly detailed, glowing 3D macro illustration of a futuristic data server rack, its intricate components illuminated by neon cyan and magenta lights, conceptually representing the complex, high-tech nature of modern data infrastructure.As Florida seeks to become a hub for AI and data centers, state officials are closely scrutinizing proposals to ensure they don't overburden local resources.Fort Meade Today

The Florida Department of Commerce has raised major concerns about a proposed 4.4 million square foot 'hyperscale' AI data center in Fort Meade, Polk County, warning that the project presents 'significant risks' to the region's energy capacity, water resources, and transportation infrastructure. In a letter to the Fort Meade mayor, the state commerce secretary outlined a series of issues with the project, known as 'Project Stonebridge', that must be addressed before it can proceed.

Why it matters

The proposed data center would be one of the first of its kind in Florida, highlighting the state's growing role in the tech and AI sectors. However, the state's pushback underscores the potential challenges that large-scale data infrastructure projects can face, especially regarding their environmental impact and strain on local resources.

The details

According to the state's letter, the data center would require an estimated minimum of 50,000 gallons of water per day, which the commerce secretary said appears to be 'woefully underestimated.' The developer must secure a permit from the Southwest Florida Water Management District, but the state says the developer has not provided 'critical information' on environmental impacts. The letter also raises concerns about the energy demands of the facility and potential issues with traffic, a railroad crossing, and vertiport facilities at the site.

  • On April 15, 2026, the Florida Department of Commerce Secretary J. Alex Kelly sent a letter to Fort Meade Mayor Jaret Williams outlining the state's concerns.
  • On April 12, 2026, the Fort Meade City Commission unanimously approved plans for the 'Project Stonebridge' data center.

The players

J. Alex Kelly

The Florida Department of Commerce Secretary who sent the letter outlining the state's concerns about the proposed data center project.

Jaret Williams

The Mayor of Fort Meade, Florida, who received the letter from the state commerce secretary.

Stonebridge

The developer behind the proposed 4.4 million square foot 'hyperscale' AI data center project in Fort Meade.

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What they’re saying

“It is readily clear that the project – if ultimately permitted and constructed – presents significant risks to Central Florida's energy capacity, water resources, and transportation infrastructure.”

— J. Alex Kelly, Florida Department of Commerce Secretary

“In light of these deficiencies, your citizenry can breathe a sigh of relief that what passed (Tuesday) is far from 'approved' and the hurdles ahead all but guarantee challenges that are indeed ripe for public input.”

— J. Alex Kelly, Florida Department of Commerce Secretary

What’s next

The developer, Stonebridge, must now address the state's concerns and secure the necessary permits from the Southwest Florida Water Management District and the Florida Public Service Commission before the project can move forward.

The takeaway

This case highlights the complex challenges that large-scale tech infrastructure projects can face, especially regarding environmental impact and strain on local resources. As Florida seeks to position itself as a hub for AI and data centers, the state is signaling it will closely scrutinize proposals to ensure they are sustainable and beneficial for local communities.