Pulaski County Tightens Data Center Rules

Pulaski County, Arkansas, is advancing an ordinance that would require large data centers in unincorporated areas to obtain site-specific conditional-use permits and undergo reviews of power, water, wastewater, traffic, noise, emergency response, equipment, and closure costs.

The proposal could materially affect AVAIO Digital Partners’ planned $6 billion data center west of Wrightsville, while officials continue to debate zoning authority and Entergy Arkansas’ electric agreement. The ordinance was scheduled for further review before the Quorum Court’s Aug. 25, 2026, meeting.