Alton residents pack open house about possible data center at former steel mill
Dozens of Alton residents attended a crowded open house about Terrawatt's proposed Riverbend Technology Center at the former Alton Steel Mill. Protesters raised concerns about noise, pollution, utility costs, electricity and water use, while supporters cited potential jobs and tax revenue; Terrawatt has not yet submitted a formal proposal to the city.
Dozens of residents attended an open house in Alton to learn about Terrawatt's possible Riverbend Technology Center, which would be located at the former Alton Steel Mill. The event drew protesters who opposed the project and expressed concerns about noise, pollution, utility costs, electricity and water impacts.
Other residents, including union worker Russell Scott and electrician Steven Landreth, said the project could create jobs and generate tax revenue for Alton. Cecilia Dvorak, CEO of development consultant Steadfast City Economic and Community Partners, said the meeting was intended to explain the project and gather community input. Terrawatt has not filed a proposal with the city, though the developer is aiming to submit one by the end of the year. Residents also referenced Terrawatt's lawsuit against St. Louis over construction prerequisites for a separate data center project.