Protestors take to Fayette Street ahead of Plymouth data center zoning hearing

Residents of Conshohocken and Plymouth Township, Pennsylvania, held a protest on Fayette Street against a proposed 2-million-square-foot data center development by MLP Ventures' Brian O'Neill. The protest took place days before a critical Plymouth Township Zoning Hearing Board session, where the project's fate will be discussed.

The development aims to transform the former Cleveland-Cliffs plate finishing site at 900 Conshohocken Road into a data center, complete with ancillary standby generators and gas turbines. Initial efforts to develop the property were met with denials from planning and zoning officials, leading to a withdrawn application in November 2025 (likely a typo, should be 2023 or 2024), but the project was revived with O'Neill seeking new zoning relief.

Community members have expressed strong opposition, citing concerns over the project's proximity to homes, schools, and businesses, as well as potential environmental impacts, excessive electricity and water consumption, noise, and health issues. Some residents also voiced fears about job displacement due to AI, comparing the data center to a "power plant in disguise." Organizers like Christine Bertino and Ardis Lukens urged residents to attend the upcoming September 17 meeting to request party status, which would grant them the right to appeal or sue if the project is approved.

The Plymouth Township Zoning Hearing Board recently moved the September meeting to a smaller venue, citing the need for an appropriate setting for testimony, despite community organizers' objections to the limited space for public input. Opposition efforts include online petitions and a Facebook page, mobilizing hundreds of residents against the proposed $6.45 billion project, which an economic report estimates could create 371 jobs and generate significant tax revenue.