24-hour construction at the Port Washington data center is set to end; neighbors say new rules aren't enough

The City of Port Washington Planning Commission unanimously approved a motion to cease 24-hour outdoor construction at the Vantage data center, a decision prompted by months of grievances from local residents regarding incessant noise and bright lights. The newly enacted regulations, introduced by Port Washington mayor Ted Neitzke, stipulate that external construction is restricted to between 6 a.m. and 8 p.m. Monday through Saturday, with Sunday work limited to a maximum of one day per month, and only necessary security lighting permitted after 8:30 p.m. These changes are slated to become effective on April 18, allowing Vantage time to adjust its operational schedules. However, the restrictions do not apply to interior construction once the buildings are fully enclosed and approved by the City Engineer, a point of contention for some residents. Vantage released a statement affirming its commitment to balancing its construction timeline with community needs. Despite the approved changes, some neighbors, like Kirk Deheck, expressed dissatisfaction, arguing the rules are insufficient, do not address interior work, and should be implemented immediately to provide full nights of sleep. Conversely, others, including Eric Rathgeber, who is selling his home to make way for the project, found the disruption minor and believe the data center will ultimately benefit the city. TMJ4 News has extensively covered the community's concerns over traffic, sound, and light emanating from the data center complex.