UPDATE: Conshohocken-area residents are urgently pushing back against a proposed 2 million-square-foot data center just one mile from the borough’s downtown. The facility, proposed by real estate mogul Brian O’Neill, would occupy the former Cleveland-Cliffs steel mill, located on 66 acres along the Schuylkill River. Residents are alarmed as they prepare for a crucial zoning board meeting set for November 17, 2023.
The development has sparked significant controversy, with the local planning board earlier this month unanimously rejecting the proposal, citing concerns over environmental impacts and rising energy costs. The facility, if built, could generate an estimated $21 million annually in tax revenue, but many residents argue that the potential benefits do not outweigh the risks.
Residents have mobilized, amassing over 370 signatures on a petition against the project. Patti Smith, a local resident who initiated the petition, expressed frustration: “The Cleveland-Cliffs Steel Mill has been a crucial part of our neighborhood. The swift move to propose a data center caught us off guard. We need to ensure our voices are heard as local municipalities are not prepared for these discussions.”
Data centers are crucial for powering global internet services, but their energy demands are skyrocketing due to the rise of artificial intelligence. A recent report from the Department of Energy indicated that data center energy consumption could double or triple by 2028. Critics warn that these facilities could strain the local power grid, leading to higher electricity rates for residents already feeling the pinch from rising energy bills.
Local residents are particularly concerned about the potential environmental impact. Smith highlighted the need for community advocacy, stating, “We want to make sure people are aware of the risks and can advocate for themselves.”
As the November hearing approaches, residents like Genevieve Boland are raising alarms about the pollution and noise that could arise from the gas turbines necessary for energy generation. “There’s ample research linking air pollution to increased cancer and respiratory issues,” Boland stated.
O’Neill claims the data center would generate its own energy, aiming to lessen the impact on the grid. However, critics point out that natural gas generation still releases harmful greenhouse gases. Furthermore, the proposed facility would require significant water consumption, raising concerns about water supply for local residents.
Pennsylvania lawmakers are pushing to facilitate data center developments as part of an economic strategy. Governor Josh Shapiro has previously endorsed a $20 billion investment in data centers across the state, including a major Amazon facility. This state-level support has sparked fears among residents that local needs and concerns may be sidelined.
Residents are determined to rally community support before the upcoming zoning board meeting. “Our goal is to ensure everyone in Plymouth Township knows what’s at stake,” Smith added. “It’s crucial for us to voice our concerns and advocate for our community’s interests.”
As pressure mounts against this proposed development, the outcome of the zoning board meeting on November 17 could significantly impact the future of Conshohocken and its residents. Stay tuned for updates as this story develops.
