Cumberland County data center project underway

Construction has begun on a 700-acre, $15 billion data center campus in Middlesex Township, Cumberland County, Pennsylvania, developed by PowerHouse Data Centers. The project, which will eventually include up to 18 buildings spanning 5 million square feet, is transforming former farmland and causing significant disruption for nearby residents. Locals, like Eugene Albert, who moved to Country Club Road last year, are now accustomed to constant drilling and blasting noises, a stark contrast to the area's previous quiet. Albert expressed concerns about potential damage to his home's well from the blasting, noting that seismographs are being used. Despite their grievances, residents feel they have limited recourse to halt the six-year construction period. The broader issue of data center regulation in Pennsylvania is being addressed by the General Assembly. Representative Joe Webster has authored a bill requiring developers to disclose water usage before construction, which recently passed the House and is now moving to the Senate. Webster acknowledges that local action is crucial for residents. The development in Middlesex Township was enabled by a zoning change passed last year. Residents were set to voice their concerns at a planning commission meeting concerning the final land development plan. PowerHouse Data Centers has stated they are actively working with the township to mitigate construction impacts.