Data center frustration in Westmoreland County
Residents in Rostraver Township, Westmoreland County, are expressing significant frustration and a lack of transparency regarding potential data center developments. Over a thousand people have signed a petition to ban data centers in the township, citing environmental concerns like water and noise pollution. Township officials confirm no official data center applications have been submitted yet.
Residents in Rostraver Township, Westmoreland County, are voicing strong frustration and a desire for transparency amid speculation about potential data center developments in their community.
Angela Carson initiated a petition to ban data centers in Rostraver Township, which has garnered over a thousand signatures. Residents express concerns about potential environmental impacts, including water quality issues, reduced water pressure, and constant noise pollution if data centers were to be built.
KDKA Investigates confirmed that various businesses and farmers in the region, including Rostraver Township, have been approached by land men representing firms interested in property purchases, though the specific purpose often remains unclear. However, it was noted that at least one farm was approached by an oil and gas company, not a data center. Rostraver Township officials have stated that no official submissions or permit applications from any data center developers have been received to date, and any such project would require multiple permits.
The Municipal Authority of Westmoreland County and West Penn Power (a utility provider) have also been contacted for information regarding data center resource inquiries, with the Municipal Authority denying any awareness of such requests. Residents emphasize their frustration over the lack of concrete answers and fear that by the time information is made public, it might be too late to prevent development.