Upper Merion leadership denies all 5 proposed data center sites
The Upper Merion Board of Supervisors denied preliminary land development plans for five proposed data center sites in King of Prussia, backed by MLP Ventures. Residents have actively opposed the project, citing concerns over pollution, energy use, and electricity rates. The developer plans to appeal the decision.
The Upper Merion Board of Supervisors voted to deny all five proposed data center sites championed by developer Brian O'Neal of MLP Ventures in King of Prussia, Pennsylvania. The decision came after an hours-long meeting where residents erupted in cheers upon hearing the board's vote. The proposed campus, envisioned to span over 4.5 million square feet across several properties including Renaissance Boulevard and Sweden Road, had faced significant public opposition.
Prior to the board's vote, a judge had granted an injunction on Wednesday, temporarily halting actions on the applications, but this was vacated on the same day, allowing the meeting to proceed. Developer Brian O'Neal expressed disappointment with the board's decision, attributing it to political motivations, and stated his intention to file an appeal. Residents had submitted a petition with 20,000 signatures opposing the development, raising concerns about potential pollution, high energy consumption, and increasing electricity rates.