Unmanaged community opposition is stalling data center projects, turning routine zoning into costly delays. While 93% support digital infrastructure generally, local support drops to 35% when a project is proposed nearby.

Today’s opposition is organized and technically fluent, citing environmental data and legal strategies to challenge projects. Starting outreach 6–18 months into development leaves developers managing expensive damage control, putting $20M–$50M/MW capital investments at risk.

Treating community engagement as core infrastructure from day one de-risks the capital stack. JLL’s guide offers a practical playbook for developers to win local support before breaking ground:

• Engage key leaders before filing permits
• Swap vague claims for concrete data on taxes, water, and jobs
• Adapt project plans based on community feedback