Residents question data center plan in South Whitehall

The South Whitehall Township Board of Commissioners held a meeting on March 4th where several residents addressed concerns about a proposed 'Project Atlas' data center project. Residents Julie Thomas and Alice Lentz raised issues with the site's karst geology, which can cause sinkholes, and the project's planned sand mound sewage system and potential impacts on local groundwater. They urged the township not to grant waivers and to require thorough environmental reviews before approving the data center. Residents also voiced concerns about how much water the facility would use, especially given the current drought conditions in the region. Township officials stated that any future changes to the data center's cooling system would require additional approvals. Several speakers also advocated for preserving the historic Blumer Farm on the property, which was the homestead of a Revolutionary War figure. The township said preserving historic resources is a priority and encouraged residents to work with community development staff. Despite these concerns, the board also recognized a long-serving township volunteer, Kenneth M. Navitsky, for 33 years of service on local boards and commissions.