The Lake Austin Collective helps residents stay informed about Project Cosmos, the proposed development at the former 3M campus at 6801 River Place Boulevard in northwest Austin.

We share information from public meetings, government documents, community surveys, news reports, and other sources so residents can better understand the project and the decisions affecting our neighborhoods.

Our purpose is to encourage accurate information, open discussion, and meaningful protections for nearby homes, schools, and the environment. We recognize that residents have different opinions about the project and believe those views deserve to be heard.

Community Town Hall

September 17, 2026 — Community Town Hall on Project Cosmos

Approximately 400 residents attended a town hall organized by community volunteers at Four Points Middle School. Representatives from SB Energy, Austin Energy, Austin Water, City departments, and elected offices answered questions about the former 3M property.

Topics included the project's proposed use, electrical requirements, water consumption, noise, vibration, traffic, wildlife, and possible protections for nearby neighborhoods and schools.

Town Hall Follow-Up and Community Summary

After the meeting, organizers prepared a summary of what residents learned, which questions remain unanswered, and what additional information is being requested. The summary helps residents follow developments even if they could not attend.

Town hall presentation by Four Points News and summary links: To be added FPN and video coverage

Community Survey

Project Cosmos Community Survey

The community survey invited residents to share their questions, concerns, and priorities about Project Cosmos. The goal was to hear from a broad range of residents and use their feedback to guide discussions with SB Energy and public officials.

The survey closed October 5, 2026.

Project Cosmos Community Survey Results — October 2026

More than 1,000 people responded to the community survey. Among the reported findings:

• 39% favored stopping the project.

• 51% favored pursuing community protections, conditions, and mitigation measures.

• Residents submitted more than 500 questions, which were grouped into a shorter list of common questions for SB Energy and government officials.

These are findings from a voluntary community survey, not a scientific poll of all residents in the area. They help us understand the views of people who chose to participate.

Full survey results and consolidated questions: Links to be added.

Community Newsletter and Updates

Sign Up for Lake Austin Collective Updates

Would you like to follow developments at Project Cosmos? Sign up to receive community updates about public meetings, City decisions, survey results, research, and opportunities to participate.

Our newsletters are intended to keep residents informed without overwhelming them with technical information.

Request to Governor Abbott

September 27, 2026 — Letter Requesting State Review of Project Cosmos

The Four Points Collective prepared a letter asking Governor Greg Abbott to review the proposed project and determine what state data-center standards and oversight may apply.

The letter raised concerns about the reported 50 MW critical IT load, approximately 70 MW total electrical requirement, and the project's proximity to neighborhoods, schools, and protected natural areas.

The letter seeks clear answers about the State's role and the protections that may be required.

Link to the community's letter: To be added.

Contact Governor Greg Abbott

Residents can contact the Governor's Office directly to share concerns, ask questions, or request information about state oversight of Project Cosmos.

Governor's Direct Assistance Form

Use this official form to submit a request for assistance or a question about the project. Residents may wish to ask which state standards apply and how compliance will be reviewed.

Letters to ERCOT and State Regulators

We are seeking information about the project's electricity requirements, potential effects on the electric system, and any state regulatory responsibilities.

Copies of correspondence and responses: To be added.

Questions to the City of Austin

Community Questions About Project Cosmos

Residents submitted hundreds of questions about the proposed development. Similar questions were grouped together and organized for review by the City, SB Energy, and other responsible agencies.

The questions cover land use, electricity, water, noise, vibration, environmental impacts, school protections, and emergency planning.

We are requesting written responses with supporting facts, clear responsibilities, and measurable commitments where appropriate.

Link to consolidated community questions: To be added.

Use Determination Request

Formal Request for City Land-Use Determination

A formal request was submitted to Austin's Development Services Department asking whether the proposed data-center use is permitted under the property's existing zoning and Planned Development Agreement.

City staff have indicated that the site's research and development provisions allow the proposed use. We are seeking the legal basis for that interpretation and clarification of the conditions and performance standards that apply.

An important question remains: What enforceable requirements will protect neighboring properties and the environment?

Link to the formal request and written City response: To be added.

Environmental Commission

Austin Environmental Commission

The Environmental Commission advises Austin City Council on environmental matters. Its meetings provide opportunities for residents to speak about concerns involving development, water, noise, wildlife, and environmental protection.

We are encouraging residents to participate and recommend measurable safeguards for data-center development.

Environmental Commission Recommendation on Data Centers — April 2026

The Commission recommended stronger City policies related to data-center energy and water demand, environmental impacts, noise, and public notice. It also recommended a moratorium on new data centers while appropriate regulations are considered.

These are Commission recommendations, not automatically adopted City requirements. They provide useful guidance for discussions about protections that Austin might establish.

Community Benefits

Community Protections and Benefits Proposal

The Collective is developing proposed protections and improvements for discussion with SB Energy and City officials.

Topics include wildfire safety, emergency evacuation, traffic, school access, noise and vibration controls, water conservation, environmental monitoring, parkland, and open space.

We believe protections should be clearly described, measurable where possible, and enforceable rather than relying only on general assurances.

Community Benefits Request

A proposed community benefits document is being prepared to identify specific improvements and responsibilities that could become part of an agreement with SB Energy.

Community benefits proposal: In development.

Communications with SB Energy and City of Austin

Discussions with SB Energy

We have shared community questions and concerns with SB Energy and requested additional details about the project's design, operation, and potential impacts.

We are also discussing ways for residents to participate in smaller meetings and receive written follow-up to their questions.

Discussions with Austin Development Services

We are communicating with City officials, including Development Services Director Keith Mars, regarding the permitted use of the property, applicable rules, and protections the City may require.

Our goal is to understand what has already been approved, what remains under review, and which City requirements will apply.

Correspondence summaries and supporting documents: To be added.

Community Outreach

Neighborhood Information Yard Signs

We are exploring yard signs that would direct neighbors to a website where they can find reliable information about Project Cosmos, including public documents and community updates.

Yard sign request information: To be added.

Invite a Speaker to Your Neighborhood

Neighborhood associations and community groups interested in learning more about Project Cosmos may request an informational discussion.

Topics may include the project's history, current status, community questions, City decisions, and ways residents can participate.

Speaker request contact information: To be added.

Local News and Video About Project Cosmos

These articles and videos provide additional information about Project Cosmos and broader data-center issues. They include reporting from local news organizations as well as coverage of similar developments elsewhere.

News coverage is included for informational purposes. Statements made by companies, residents, and public officials should be understood as attributed statements unless independently documented.

KVUE — October 11, 2026: Community Survey Results

A report about the community survey, including residents' views on stopping the project versus pursuing protections and the questions being submitted to SB Energy and public officials.

Direct article or video link: To be added.

KVUE — Data Center or R&D Campus? Northwest Austin Neighbors Seek Answers

This report looks at how the project is being described and why residents want more information about its intended use. It introduces concerns about potential impacts and the City's role in reviewing the development.

KVUE — New Project Cosmos Details Emerge as Neighbors Press for Answers

Follow-up reporting on new details about Project Cosmos and continuing questions from nearby residents. The coverage provides additional context about the companies involved and the community's requests for information.

Austin Free Press — Short Circuit: New Austin Data Center Leaves Council Members With Questions

An examination of City Council concerns and the challenges Austin faces in regulating data centers. The article also discusses financial records describing the Cosmos project and its proposed electrical capacity.

Four Points News — SB Energy Names Graphcore as Tenant

Local reporting about Graphcore's plans for the former 3M campus and SB Energy's description of the development as an R&D facility.

The article also includes company statements about cooling, noise screening, and construction. These are statements made by SB Energy rather than independently verified operating results.

Four Points News — Construction at Former 3M Campus

An earlier look at construction activity and plans for the new tenant at the former 3M property. This provides background on the project before the September community town hall.

60 Minutes / YouTube — Data Centers in Red Oak, Texas

A video about large data centers in Texas and questions surrounding their development, including infrastructure needs. It offers broader context for understanding similar projects.

Community Impact — Four Points Area Residents Discuss Future of Former 3M Campus

Published September 18, 2026, this article covers the community discussion surrounding the proposed redevelopment following the town hall.

Austin Free Press — Power Play: Counties Need More Authority

An October 2, 2026 article discussing local-government authority and issues that may affect the regulation of large developments. It provides broader policy background.

General Information and Library

The following resources include official government records, financial documents, company information, independent research, and examples of community protections.

They are provided so residents can examine original sources and learn more about Project Cosmos and data-center development.

SB Energy and Project Cosmos

SB Energy / HighPoint 2222 Project Website

SB Energy's public website describes its plans for the former 3M property and provides company information about Project Cosmos. This is the developer's own description of the project.

Graphcore — Austin Location

Graphcore identifies its Austin location at 6801 River Place Boulevard, the former 3M campus. The company's contact page provides information about its locations.

Graphcore Joins SoftBank Group

Graphcore explains its acquisition by SoftBank and its work developing artificial intelligence computing technology. This provides background about the company and its relationship to the broader SoftBank organization.

Governor Abbott Announces SB Energy Commitment to Data-Center Standards

In an August 12, 2026 announcement, the Governor's Office identified SB Energy among companies agreeing to comply with state data-center standards and guidelines.

This announcement is useful when asking what specific commitments SB Energy has made and how the State intends to review compliance.

What the Financial Records Say About Cosmos

Public financing and securities documents provide additional information about Cosmos, including the project's purpose, size, financial structure, and proposed electrical capacity.

These records are especially useful because they describe the project to investors and lenders.

SEC Filings

SB Energy Amended SEC Registration Statement — September 2026

This federal securities filing contains information about SB Energy and the Cosmos project, including references to approximately 50 MW of critical IT capacity and project financing.

It is an important original source for reviewing financial disclosures about the development.

Original SB Energy SEC Registration Filing and Exhibits

This collection includes SB Energy's original registration filing and supporting financial documents. Readers can use it to review the company's disclosures and information about its projects.

SE Cosmos Financing Agreement / Indenture

This financing agreement uses data-center terminology, including “Data Center Campus,” “Data Center Lease,” and “Data Center Project.”

These terms are significant because they show how the development is described in financial agreements, which can be compared with descriptions used in the local land-use process.

Fitch Ratings

Fitch Ratings — SE Cosmos Data-Center Financing, May 28, 2026

Fitch describes Cosmos as a data-center project with approximately 70 MW of total electrical capacity, including 50 MW of critical IT capacity.

Fitch assigned the project's senior secured notes a BB- rating with a Stable Outlook. The report provides an independent financial analysis and helps clarify how the project is characterized in financing markets.

Other Financial Documentation

Cahill — $999 Million SE Cosmos Financing

The law firm involved in the transaction reports financing for a high-performance computing data center in Austin. The announcement helps explain the size of the financing and the project's stated purpose.

S&P Global Ratings — SE Cosmos

S&P describes approximately 50 MW of critical IT capacity associated with development halls, silicon-development areas, and high-density computing facilities.

The report provides another independent financial perspective on the project's proposed capacity and operations.

Texas Government Information

These official sources explain state policies, public records, and the ways Texas regulates or classifies data centers.

Governor Abbott and Data-Center Standards

Governor Abbott — SB Energy Commits to Texas Data-Center Standards

The August 12, 2026 announcement identifies SB Energy among companies agreeing to comply with the Governor's data-center standards.

It is an important starting point for understanding state expectations, although additional project-specific information is needed to establish which requirements apply to Cosmos.

Governor Abbott Contact Page

Find ways to communicate directly with the Governor's Office about Project Cosmos, data-center standards, or state oversight.

Governor's Assistance Form

The State's official online form allows residents to submit their questions and request assistance or clarification.

Texas Definition and Treatment of Data Centers

Texas Comptroller — Qualifying Data Centers

Explains Texas tax provisions for qualifying data centers, including eligibility and investment requirements.

These are state tax classifications. They should not be confused with City of Austin zoning determinations or construction approvals.

Texas Tax Code §151.359

The actual state law governing certain tax provisions for qualifying data centers. Readers who want the legal details can review the statute directly.

Texas Department of Licensing and Regulation — Cosmos Construction Record

This public construction registration identifies a reported $610 million renovation covering approximately 234,000 square feet, with a scheduled completion date of April 15, 2027.

The state record lists Karlin River Place LLC as the owner on the registration. That is the name shown in this particular record and should not be treated as independent confirmation of current property ownership.

The estimated project cost and completion date are registration details, not proof of final construction cost or actual completion.

City of Austin Data-Center Policy

Austin City Council has begun considering new policies governing data-center development. These resources explain Council discussions and actions.

It is important to distinguish between proposals, Council directions to develop rules, and regulations that have actually been adopted.

Austin City Council — August 25, 2026 Data-Center Work Session

Council discussed the growing importance of data centers and questions about land use, electricity, infrastructure, and possible City regulations.

The meeting materials provide background on the City's approach.

Austin City Council — August 27, 2026 Meeting

Council approved Item 61, directing staff to work on potential changes to the Land Development Code and other City rules regarding data centers.

This action began a regulatory development process. It did not, by itself, mean that every proposed new requirement had been adopted.

Resolution No. 20260827-061 — Data Centers

The Council resolution directs further work on data-center land-use classifications, site-development standards, permitting, and related regulations.

The resolution and supporting materials can be found on the August 27 meeting page.

City Manager / City of Austin Official Memo Search

Search City memoranda and reports for staff updates about data centers, land development, infrastructure, and other public policy matters.

Environmental Information

These resources provide background on environmental questions associated with data centers. Some address data centers directly, while others cover broader issues such as environmental noise and health.

They do not, by themselves, establish the actual impacts that Cosmos will have. Project-specific studies and measurements are needed for that.

Austin Environmental Commission

The Environmental Commission advises Austin City Council on issues involving environmental quality, conservation, and development.

Residents can find information about meetings, recommendations, and opportunities to offer public comments.

Environmental Commission — Data-Center Recommendations

The April 2026 recommendation addresses concerns such as electricity demand, water use, noise, public notice, and environmental impacts.

The Commission also called for a moratorium on new data centers. This was a recommendation, not a moratorium automatically placed into effect.

World Health Organization — Environmental Noise and Health

The World Health Organization summarizes research on environmental noise and potential effects on sleep, health, and well-being.

This is useful background when discussing the importance of appropriate noise assessment and protections near residential areas and schools.

St. Louis Public Radio — How Data-Center Noise Is Different From Regular Noise Pollution

A September 24, 2026 report discussing why the continuous and sometimes low-frequency sound associated with data-center equipment can raise different concerns from occasional noise.

It helps explain why communities may request measurements of sound frequency, nighttime noise, and continuous equipment operation.

Background on Community Benefits and Protections

Community-benefit agreements and local policies can help establish responsibilities for large developments. These resources offer ideas for discussions with SB Energy and the City.

New Jersey Economic Development Authority — Data Center Municipal Resource Hub

A government resource designed to help municipalities evaluate data-center development and consider community needs.

It offers ideas that may be useful when discussing planning, infrastructure, and potential benefits.

University of Kentucky — Community Benefit Agreement Toolkit for Data Centers

A practical guide to developing community-benefit agreements for data-center projects.

It explains how communities can identify priorities and seek clear commitments. This is particularly relevant to the Collective's work on a proposed community benefits agreement.

City of El Paso — Draft Data-Center Policy Framework

An example of how another Texas city has approached data-center policy. The draft addresses land use, infrastructure, environmental impacts, and community concerns.

Because this is a draft framework, it should not be described as an adopted ordinance without further confirmation.

Massachusetts — Responsible Data-Center Development Executive Order

A state executive order addressing responsible data-center development and effects on residents, electricity customers, and the environment.

It provides another example of policies intended to protect communities while addressing large new developments.

Brookings Institution — Why Community Benefit Agreements Are Necessary for Data Centers

A policy analysis explaining how agreements between developers and communities can help address local impacts.

It offers ideas about identifying priorities, negotiating commitments, and ensuring that nearby residents receive meaningful consideration.

Contact Public Officials

Residents are encouraged to contact their elected representatives and government officials directly.

Sharing specific concerns, asking questions, and requesting clear answers can help public officials understand community priorities.

Austin City Council

Austin City Council Main Page

Information about the Mayor, City Council members, meeting agendas, and ways to participate in City government.

Email the Mayor and All Council Members

This official City form allows residents to send comments or questions to the Mayor and all ten Council members.

Council Member Marc Duchen — District 10

District 10 Office

Council Member Marc Duchen represents District 10. His office can receive questions about Project Cosmos, zoning, neighborhood concerns, and possible City protections.

Email the District 10 Office

Send a question, concern, or request for information directly to the Council office.

District 10 Staff Directory

Find staff contact information and the policy subjects handled by the District 10 office.

Email William Grant — District 10 Policy Staff

William Grant's policy responsibilities include development services, energy, land use, planning and zoning, transportation, and water.

He is a useful contact for questions about City policy and Project Cosmos.

Governor Greg Abbott

Governor Abbott Contact Page

Find official ways to contact the Governor's Office about Project Cosmos and state data-center policy.

Governor's Assistance Form

Use this form to send a question or request for assistance to the Governor's Office.

Governor's Office Announcement Involving SB Energy

The August 12, 2026 announcement identifies SB Energy among companies agreeing to the Governor's data-center standards.

Residents can refer to this announcement when asking what the commitment means for Project Cosmos.

Stay Informed and Participate

The Lake Austin Collective believes residents deserve accurate information and an opportunity to participate in decisions that affect their neighborhoods.

We welcome different points of view about Project Cosmos. Our work focuses on gathering facts, obtaining answers, encouraging respectful discussions, and seeking meaningful community protections.

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