Adams County data center gets federal permit, as voters sign petitions to block it

The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers issued a permit for a data center project near the former Stuart power plant in Adams County, Ohio, despite local voters circulating petitions to block the project. The permit comes with conditions to protect endangered species and maintain buffer zones around cemeteries. Local residents and activists are concerned about the environmental impact and light pollution of the data center, and are pushing for state and local policies to restrict its development. The opening of a new astronomical observatory in the area has also heightened concerns about light pollution. While data centers could bring economic benefits, local leaders and residents want to ensure they are implemented responsibly and with proper safeguards.