South Bend Township in Armstrong County is considering a moratorium on AI data center development
South Bend Township in Armstrong County, PA, is considering a moratorium on AI data center development to block a proposed project on local hunting land. Residents are strongly opposing the development, citing concerns about a lack of zoning and the rural character of their community. The township is also exploring options to establish zoning ordinances and related commissions.
South Bend Township, located in Armstrong County, Pennsylvania, is actively considering a moratorium on the development of AI data centers. This proposed halt is a direct response to a plan by a Florida-based AI data center developer to acquire and build on land currently leased for hunting. Residents express strong opposition, with 200 of the approximately 960 inhabitants having signed a petition against the project.
Residents, who were taken by surprise by the proposal, voiced concerns about the rural character of their community being disrupted by industrial development. Brian Buchanan noted the developer might have assumed less resistance due to the township's lack of zoning, a point he believes will be proven wrong. David Linsenbigler echoed sentiments that the project would bring an unwelcome urban environment to their rural homes.
In addition to proposing a moratorium, the township supervisors have engaged with planning specialists from Harrisburg to investigate establishing formal zoning ordinances, a zoning board, and a planning commission, recognizing the current lack of such regulatory frameworks.