Westfield considers extension for $4 billion data center
The Westfield Planning Board considered extending a special permit for Servistar Realties LLC's $4 billion data center campus, drawing mixed public reaction. Concerns were raised about environmental impact and noise, despite the developer's assurances on water and grid usage. A previously enacted one-year moratorium on data centers does not apply to this project due to its prior permit approval.
The Westfield Planning Board convened to discuss extending a special permit to three years for Servistar Realties LLC's proposed $4 billion data center campus. Reporter Kaylee Thomas noted a mixed public reaction, with residents gathering outside city hall holding signs to voice concerns. Opponents cited potential negative environmental impacts, noise pollution, and a lack of consideration for nearby residents during the initial decision-making process.
Despite the Westfield City Council enacting a one-year moratorium on data center projects in July, this specific project is exempt because its permit was granted prior, on October 19, 2021.
Servistar Realties' representative addressed concerns during the overflowing meeting, stating that the project's key elements, including design and noise levels, remain unchanged. They highlighted plans for a closed-loop cooling system to minimize water use and assured that the data center would operate as an isolated island on the regional service grid, avoiding impact on the Westfield Gas and Electric Network. The company also committed to covering 100% of utility costs. Supporters emphasized the project's potential for job creation and local economic benefits, citing a project labor agreement. Residents also expressed concerns about data privacy and the broader implications of AI.