Iselin law firm Greenbaum, Rowe, Smith & Davis debuts data center development practice
Iselin-based law firm Greenbaum, Rowe, Smith & Davis LLP has launched a new data center development and infrastructure practice to provide legal support to developers, operators, and investors in New Jersey. The practice will assist with site selection, land use approvals, environmental permitting, and other regulatory matters. This development occurs amid rising public opposition to data centers in New Jersey and recent state legislation signed by Governor Mikie Sherrill.
Greenbaum, Rowe, Smith & Davis LLP, an Iselin-based law firm, has announced the formation of its new data center development and infrastructure practice. The practice aims to offer comprehensive legal support to various stakeholders in the data center industry, including developers, operators, investors, and financing parties, throughout the project lifecycle.
The new practice, led by Barbara J. Koonz, will leverage the firm's expertise in land use, environmental law, energy, real estate, finance, and tax incentives. Attorneys will provide counsel on matters such as site selection, land use approvals, environmental permitting, energy and utility issues, project financing, and navigating ongoing regulatory requirements in New Jersey.
The launch comes at a time of increasing public scrutiny and opposition to data center developments across New Jersey and the nation. A recent Stockton University poll indicated that a majority of New Jersey voters are concerned about the proliferation of artificial intelligence data centers, with 56% expressing support for local bans.
Adding to the evolving landscape, Governor Mikie Sherrill signed legislation on July 7 aimed at increasing accountability for utility companies and data centers. The legislation also introduced immediate bill credits for New Jersey households, underscoring the state's efforts to address the impacts of energy consumption and development.