GENESEE COUNTY/Alabama Planning Board tackles data center site plan

The Alabama Planning Board in Genesee County, New York, recently convened to review the site plan for 'Project Double Reed,' a proposed $19.46 billion data center development by STREAM U.S. Data Centers at the Western New York Science & Technology Advanced Manufacturing Park (STAMP). The meeting was marked by strong resident opposition, with many attendees holding signs and a woman vocally criticizing the project and lack of transparency regarding the data center's occupants. Town Supervisor Robert Crossen addressed disruptions from the public, emphasizing the need for focused attention on the detailed site plan review. Robert Klavoon from Wendel Companies, an engineering firm assisting the Planning Board, presented details on the project's technical aspects. He clarified that the data centers would use a closed-loop, air-cooled system requiring minimal makeup water, estimated at 20,000 gallons per day, well within the STAMP park's allocated 200,000 gallons. Klavoon also debunked concerns about glycol discharge into sewers, stating it would be contained within the facility. The board discussed a 900-foot waterline extension, sanitary sewer discharge to the Village of Oakfield's wastewater plant, and ongoing noise studies. While no definitive conclusions were reached on the noise impact, discussions included generator testing schedules and potential code enforcement actions if noise regulations are not met. The project involves six generators for life safety and essential services, not full backup power. The board decided to hold a public hearing on the site plan at the Alabama Fire Department on April 20 at 6 p.m. to allow for public comment.