Parkland joins opposition against data center across from high school; a ‘ticking time bomb,’ member says
The Parkland School Board unanimously approved a resolution opposing Project Atlas, a proposed hyperscale data center campus across from Parkland High School in South Whitehall. Board members and community opponents cited concerns about noise, vibration, and the health and safety of students and staff, despite potential tax revenue benefits.
The Parkland School Board unanimously approved a resolution urging South Whitehall Township officials to consider the health and safety of the school community as they review Project Atlas. The proposed campus would include three data center buildings totaling about 1.48 million square feet, plus administration and warehouse buildings, across the street from Parkland High School.
Board Vice President Chris Pirrotta described the proposal as a potential "ticking time bomb" and said student safety should take precedence over possible tax revenue that could help address the district's projected budget shortfall. Board President David Hein and other members supported the resolution, while acknowledging that the development could generate significant revenue for the district. Opponents remain concerned about environmental effects, including noise and vibration affecting students and staff.