Butler supervisors clear hurdle for data center campus expansion at Highridge
Butler Township Supervisors approved rezoning land for the third phase of Nebius's proposed 600-acre data center campus in the Highridge Industrial Park. Additionally, they voted to reduce the maximum noise level for data centers and mandated a community benefits agreement for developers. These decisions followed public hearings where residents voiced concerns.
Butler Township Supervisors voted to rezone land for the third phase of a proposed 600-acre data center campus, dubbed an "AI factory," by Netherlands-based firm Nebius. The project is located in the Highridge Industrial Park, north of Interstate 81, and expands Nebius's existing development that includes Phases 1 and 2.
The rezoning decision, approved by a 2-1 vote, followed several hours of public testimony held over two meetings. Residents raised concerns, particularly about noise levels, with some advocating for stricter limits and urging supervisors to table the amendment.
Despite public opposition, supervisors unanimously approved new regulations for data centers, reducing the maximum permissible noise level at the property line from 75 decibels to 65 decibels. They also added a requirement for developers to pursue a "good faith negotiation of a community benefits agreement" to mitigate operational impacts on the immediate community.
State Rep. Tim Twardzik (R-123), also a board member for the Schuylkill Economic Development Corporation (SEDCO), voiced support for the Nebius project, calling it "a great opportunity" in the "right location." Nebius representatives presented preliminary noise study findings, and the company stated the campus would use a closed-loop cooling system and acoustical sound walls. The project, which will use water supplied by the Schuylkill County Municipal Authority, is expected to create 100-150 jobs.