Alton residents make it clear that they're opposing data center project
Residents in Alton, Illinois, are opposing plans to convert the former Alton Steel mill into the River Bend Technology Center data center. They cite concerns about water use, environmental impacts, and strain on the power grid, while Terrawatt says the project would use substantially less water and produce fewer emissions than the former steel mill.
Alton Steel announced it is finalizing a deal to sell its nearly 400-acre former mill site to Terrawatt, which plans to redevelop the property as the River Bend Technology Center. The proposed data center has drawn opposition from Alton residents who are concerned about power demand, water consumption, environmental disruption and potential effects on nearby bald eagle habitat and a migratory bird sanctuary.
Resident Noah Anderson said community members want city officials to provide more information about the project's operations, incentives and potential drawbacks. The project's website claims the facility would use nearly 100% less water than the steel mill, emit 81% fewer air pollutants and be 48 decibels quieter, but residents remain unconvinced and are urging greater transparency from local leaders.