Residents of Pittsburg, California, gather to protest massive data center development
Residents in Pittsburg, California, are protesting a massive data center development by Alviso Digital, claiming they were misled by the city. The project, initially approved two years ago for its first phase, is facing strong community opposition due to its proximity to residential areas and concerns about its environmental impact, water, and electricity usage.
Residents of Pittsburg, California, are actively protesting a large data center development, arguing they were misled by city officials about the project's true nature. What was initially presented in 2018 as a "business and technology park" on the site of a former municipal golf course has been revealed to be a massive data center proposed by Alviso Digital.
The community's discontent escalated, with a raucous council meeting in June drawing 400 attendees to express disapproval. Carmen McGowan, a resident living across the street from the proposed facility, expressed strong concerns about living next to a huge data center. Although Alviso Digital states the facility would be air-cooled and use recycled water, residents are fearful due to a perceived lack of transparency regarding its impact on wildlife, water, and electricity.
Despite the project's first phase receiving final approval two years ago, and the city's website stating all necessary approvals are in place, two additional phases are planned, potentially boosting the facility's power to 500MW. This has galvanized the community to continue their fight against further development, reminding their elected officials that they represent the residents' best interests. A community engagement workshop has been scheduled for July 30th to address concerns.