Website launched to promote Newport Twp. data center campus
A promotional website is touting a proposed 15-data-center campus on nearly 1,400 acres in Newport Township ahead of a public commissioners meeting expected to draw significant criticism. Township officials previously issued 15 zoning permits, while the unidentified developer plans to use grid power and FuelCell Energy fuel cells and says water use and electricity costs will be controlled.
A newly launched website is promoting a proposed 15-data-center campus on about 1,386 acres of former mining and quarry land in Newport Township. The project would include seven facilities in a mixed-use zone and eight in an industrial zone between the Lee and Glen Lyon sections. The developer has not been publicly identified, although the site says it plans to partner with FuelCell Energy for on-site power generation to reduce demand on the local grid.
The proposal has prompted community opposition and an anticipated large turnout at a Newport Township commissioners meeting. Critics say the project was not subject to sufficient public debate, while Commissioner President Paul Czapracki has said it could generate substantial revenue for the township. Township officials previously issued 15 permits, and a recently adopted ordinance requires data centers to meet infrastructure, setback, buffering, fire-safety, utility, hydrologic, noise and environmental requirements.