Data Centers + Housing Shortages + ARPA Funding | ASTA | Aug 6, 2025

In this session
Rachel Quednau (Director of Movement Building) and Edward Erfurt (Chief Technical Advisor) took questions on redirecting infrastructure spending, opposing disruptive projects, and navigating local politics.

The conversation dug into the growing impact of data centers on communities—particularly issues of noise pollution, water use, and energy demand—as well as member-driven strategies to influence decision-making.

Key topics included:

• Understanding the full costs of hosting a data center.

• Successfully opposing costly road widenings.

• Leveraging federal funds like ARPA for local priorities.

• Using small, visible wins to build momentum for larger change.

• Tackling housing shortages with practical, incremental steps.

Highlights from members:

• “What ended the road widening project was helping council members maneuver funds to address a water main issue instead.” – Aaron C.

Referenced Resources & Links from Chat:

• Carmel, Indiana articles on Strong Towns – Why a booming suburb still struggles with financial productivity.

• Carmel Podcast Episode – Deep dive into Carmel’s development model.

• Finance Decoder – Understand your city’s budget and financial obligations.

• Post-Pandemic Predictions – Anticipating community trends after COVID-19.

• Neighborhood Revitalization Story – How one resident sparked local change.

• Housing on Vacant Lots – Case study in incremental development.

• Housing Ready Toolkit – Practical guide to prepare your community for new housing.

• Sanborn Maps Collection – Historic maps for understanding neighborhood evolution.

• South Street Cottages Project – Creative housing density in action.

• Andy’s Fort Smith Video Series – Documenting the fight to stop a road widening.

• Local Motive Fall 2025 Roundtrip – Members get free access!

About Ask Strong Towns Anything
This member-exclusive series gives you direct access to Strong Towns staff and peers shaping change in their communities. Want to be part of the next one? Become a Strong Towns member today.