Swatara Township approves plans for data center amid concerns
Swatara Township commissioners voted 4-1 to approve plans for the Highlands East data center, a more than 700,000-square-foot facility on a 156-acre site near Highland Street. Residents raised concerns about proximity to homes and noise, while the developer cited job creation and more than $36 million in community benefits.
The Swatara Township Board of Commissioners approved the Highlands East data center development plan by a 4-1 vote. The project, planned for a 156-acre field near Highland Street and WITF, would be the township’s first data center and include a facility larger than 700,000 square feet.
Some residents questioned the project’s potential noise and proximity to homes, while others supported the development and urged greater public education about data centers. Commission President Shaela Ellis said state requirements under Pennsylvania’s Municipal Planning Code limited the board’s options because failing to act within 90 days would have resulted in approval without conditions. Developer Corscale Data Centers says Highlands East and a proposed Highlands West campus would create at least 250 full-time jobs and generate more than $36 million for public safety, workforce training and other community initiatives.