Protestors push back against data center development in Prince George's County, Maryland
Dozens of residents in Prince George's County, Maryland, rallied for and against data center development. County Executive Ayesha Braveboy extended an executive order pausing permits, while the County Council Chair Crystal Oreada proposed a two-year moratorium, which is set for a vote next week.
Residents of Prince George's County, Maryland, gathered outside the Wayne K. Curry administration building for a heated rally concerning data center development. Approximately 75 individuals protested future data center projects, citing environmental concerns such as air pollution, and specifically referenced a proposed project at the former Landover Mall site.
Conversely, a smaller group of about 40 people demonstrated in support of data centers, arguing that the technology represents progress for the county. The debate comes as County Executive Ayesha Braveboy extended an executive order this week, which temporarily pauses permit consideration for data center projects until at least September 30th.
Adding to the regulatory landscape, County Council Chair Crystal Oreada, who openly opposes data centers, has proposed a two-year moratorium on development. This legislation aims to provide county leaders with more time to review land use policies, assess long-term impacts, and consider statewide and national precedents regarding data center consequences and safeguards. The County Council is scheduled to vote on this moratorium legislation next week. While some data center supporters expressed openness to a moratorium for further review, opponents fear it may not provide a sufficient long-term solution.