More Central PA municipalities seek stricter oversight of potential future data center projects
Multiple townships in Centre County, Pennsylvania, are actively updating their zoning ordinances to implement stricter oversight of potential data center projects. College Township led the effort by reclassifying data centers as a conditional use, allowing for a thorough review process and the application of conditions like buffer zones and energy/water standards. Other townships are now following suit to establish similar protections for their residents.
Municipalities across Centre County, Pennsylvania, are moving to establish greater control over prospective data center developments. College Township initiated this trend by revising its zoning ordinances, reclassifying data centers from a "use by right" to a "conditional use." This change grants the township a 120-day review period for proposals and the authority to impose reasonable conditions. These conditions include mandatory buffer zones to shield residential areas from light and noise, alongside requirements for data centers to adhere to specific energy and water usage standards.
Following College Township's lead, other municipalities in Centre County are adopting similar measures. Ray Salinas, Centre County Director of Planning and Community Development, noted that Snow Shoe Township recently submitted an amendment for its zoning regulations, with Ferguson, Rush, and Halfmoon townships also exploring amendments. The county encourages these municipalities to situate data centers within industrial or manufacturing zones, away from residential areas, to mitigate concerns such as noise and vibration. Officials emphasize the importance of ongoing monitoring of state-level legislation to implement robust protections for residents should data center projects be proposed in their areas.