Township expected to vote on approving PA data center complex after postponing twice
The Middlesex Township Board of Supervisors is set to vote on final approval for a significant portion of the PAX-1 data center complex, after previously postponing the decision twice. If approved, construction on six of the 16 planned data center buildings can begin, despite ongoing community opposition that has previously led to meeting disruptions. Developers have proposed a $14 million Community Benefits Agreement and additional requirements like noise monitoring and environmental testing to address concerns.
The Middlesex Township Board of Supervisors is scheduled to vote Wednesday night on the final approval for a substantial part of the PAX-1 data center complex in Cumberland County, Pennsylvania. This vote follows two previous postponements by the board regarding the project.
If the measure passes, developers will be permitted to commence construction on six data center buildings, which represents a fraction of the 16 total buildings planned for the complex. Construction of the complex's substations has already been approved and is underway. The meeting will take place at 6 p.m. at Cumberland Valley High School Performing Arts Center.
The project has faced considerable community opposition, with protests disrupting previous meetings and even forcing one postponement due to overcrowding. In an effort to mitigate local concerns, the developers have put forth a Community Benefits Agreement, pledging $14 million to the township if the project is approved. Additionally, the board is expected to vote on a side letter that would impose further requirements on the developers, including noise monitoring, water quality testing, and emissions testing. With Supervisor William Goodhart's recent resignation, the two remaining supervisors will require a unanimous 2-0 vote for any resolutions to pass.