Smithfield Town Council restricts data centers in town

Smithfield, Rhode Island, residents overwhelmingly opposed a proposed data center business park during a Town Council meeting. Concerns raised by dozens of speakers included pollution, privacy, noise, and the consumption of water and electricity, with one resident remarking, "We can't let Smithfield be next" in experiencing a "data center nightmare." Earlier that evening, the Smithfield Town Council voted to adopt a new ordinance that restricts data centers within the town. Previously undefined, data centers are now listed as not permitted in all zoning districts. The proposed data center, reported by The Valley Breeze, was to be the anchor of a business park planned for land behind Fidelity Investments and across from Bryant University. The adopted ordinance is not a permanent ban, as the town intends to revisit the matter after further review and analysis.