Google Says Franklin Furnace Data Center Will Protect Water, Limit Noise, and Bring Long-Term Jobs
Google is providing details and assurances about its "Project Dazzler" data center in Franklin Furnace, Ohio, addressing community concerns regarding water usage, electricity demand, traffic, noise, and jobs. The company emphasizes environmental protection, payment for infrastructure, and local hiring, despite ongoing local controversy.
Google officials are offering new details and assurances regarding the company's planned "Project Dazzler" data center campus in Franklin Furnace, Ohio, following a recent public open house. The event aimed to address resident concerns about water usage, electric demand, traffic, noise, and job creation, with Google representatives emphasizing their appreciation for the warm community reception.
Key among residents' concerns were potential impacts on the Ohio River and local water supplies. Google stated it does not discharge industrial wastewater directly into the environment, instead routing it through public sewer systems. The company is also designing the campus with stormwater retention and detention systems and is working on wetland mitigation plans, aiming to preserve environmentally sensitive areas and existing tree lines for wildlife habitat.
Regarding electricity, Google officials assured that the company will cover the full cost of operating the campus and necessary infrastructure improvements from AEP Ohio, addressing concerns about potential increases in local electric rates. The project, which includes a new electrical substation by AEP, comes amid statewide discussions on rapid data center growth and its impact on the electric grid.
Google also highlighted its commitment to local economic development, promising long-term, high-wage operational jobs and stressing efforts to hire locally and prepare workers through programs like the Skilled Trades and Readiness (STAR) Program. Molly Kocour Boyle, Regional Head of Data Center Public Affairs, explained that the constant replacement of technology ensures consistent tax benefits and economic activity for the county over the project's 20+ year lifespan. Despite these efforts and support from Scioto County Commissioners, the project remains controversial among some residents, with Google pledging continued engagement through the permitting and planning process.