Allentown strengthens data center ordinance after public backlash: ‘You do have power, people are listening’
Allentown City Council unanimously adopted stricter zoning requirements for data centers following public criticism of an earlier ordinance. The new rules reduce eligible industrial zones, increase setbacks from sensitive uses, mandate noise studies, and require public informational meetings and decommissioning plans from developers. This move reflects the council's responsiveness to residents' concerns about noise, energy consumption, and environmental impact.
Allentown City Council has unanimously approved a series of stricter amendments to its data center zoning ordinance, responding to significant public backlash against the original law adopted in June. Residents and anti-data center activists, including Alicia Ruthrauff of Lehigh Valley Stands Up, argued that the initial ordinance failed to adequately protect the community from potential negative impacts such as excessive noise, increased energy prices, and water pollution.
The updated ordinance significantly restricts where data centers can be located, allowing them only in one of the city's three industrial zoning districts by special exception, down from two previously. It also increases the minimum property line setback from sensitive areas like homes and schools to 500 feet, up from 200 feet. Additionally, developers will face more stringent requirements, including detailed noise studies, comprehensive decommissioning plans, and mandatory public informational meetings before any formal hearings or votes.
Council members praised the public's engagement, noting the unusually rapid progression of the legislation. Council member Ce-Ce Gerlach highlighted the responsiveness of the process, stating, "You do have power, people are listening." The amendments, which received positive feedback from both the Lehigh Valley Planning Commission and the Allentown Planning Commission, will apply to all data center land development applications submitted after June 24, though an existing proposal on W. Emmaus Ave. is exempt as it was submitted earlier and is expected to be reviewed in the fall.