In this episode of Dirt to Development, Adam Baugh breaks down the proposed federal “21st Century ROAD to Housing Act” and explores how it could reshape housing development, zoning, and institutional investment across Arizona. From build-to-rent uncertainty to the unintended consequences for housing supply, this episode examines whether the legislation is truly paving the road to affordability — or creating new roadblocks for development.

Data centers may be the backbone of the digital economy, but getting them approved on the ground is anything but seamless. In this episode, we unpack the growing tension between surging demand for data infrastructure and the realities of local zoning and land use regulation—where megawatts meet municipal code.

From intensive utility demands and transmission constraints to water usage concerns, noise, and community skepticism, data center projects often face a uniquely complex entitlement path. We explore why jurisdictions are grappling with how to classify and regulate these facilities, and how outdated zoning frameworks struggle to keep pace with hyperscale development.

We also dig into the politics: why neighbors push back, how elected officials respond, and what it takes to position a project as compatible—even beneficial—to the surrounding community. Along the way, we break down practical strategies for navigating rezoning, securing use permits, and building a defensible record that can withstand scrutiny.

Whether you’re a developer, land use attorney, planner, or policymaker, this episode offers a candid look at the friction points—and opportunities—shaping the future of data center siting.

The pursuit of land use entitlements comes with risk. For partners Adam Baugh and Jason Morris, the risk was worth the reward as they converted a local bar into a swanky law office complete with a putting green and a speakeasy. The redevelopment of this 40-year-old building is a masterclass in adaptive reuse execution. Said best, "I'm sure the sports bar served better wings, but we dispense way better advice.” Join us in the journey of this office flip.