El Paso leaders get update on Meta data center project, city cites enforceable agreements

EL PASO, TEXAS (KFOX14/CBS4) — El Paso city leaders received a detailed update on the Wurldwide Data Center project, commonly known as the Meta data center, including where the development stands and what options the city has if the developer does not meet its commitments.

In October 2025, Meta announced a $1.5 billion artificial intelligence data center project to be built in northeast El Paso. However, since the announcement and construction of the center, concerns from residents about data centers and their resource use have continued to be raised.

On Monday, the city said the most recent update on the data center covered the project’s development status, the city’s contractual obligations, and the city’s legal position.

City officials said the agreements tied to the project are enforceable and include clear performance requirements related to private investment, job creation, and construction timelines. Those agreements include land purchase and development terms, along with tax abatement and economic development agreements previously approved by the City Council.

The city said it has remedies available if the developer fails to meet its obligations, including potential termination for cause.

However, officials said that if the city terminates its agreements without cause, it could face potential legal and financial liability exceeding $1 billion.

City officials said the project remains in active development, as staff continues to monitor compliance.

“The concerns around water use, energy demand, and environmental impact are valid, and they are being taken seriously. This agreement was approved by the previous City Council, and while the vast majority of Council was not part of that decision, we are responsible for ensuring it is enforced and that El Paso families are protected,” Mayor Renard Johnson said. “This is why we are working on a clear data center policy that puts our community first, protects our resources, and sets expectations for any company that wants to invest here.”

Last month, the city began developing a data center policy framework, where the city hosted several community meetings to help gather public input that city leaders say will guide future projects, including issues such as land use, infrastructure, and utilities.

The policy framework comes after the El Paso County Commissioners’ court has directed staff to develop a best practices guide, focusing on community engagement and assessing impacts on resources like water and electricity.

In January, County Commissioners’ court unanimously agreed on the importance of having transparent discussions about the long-term effects of data centers, such as the Meta data center being built off US 54 and Stan Roberts Sr. Avenue in Northeast El Paso.

Additionally, the city is working to develop recommendations for future data center policy in El Paso.

Residents can still participate through the city’s online survey, which remains available on the city’s Data Center website through 5 p.m. Friday, April 17.

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