Township supervisors approve data center development plan
Middlesex Township supervisors in Cumberland County, Pennsylvania, have approved a controversial data center development plan despite strong public opposition. Residents voiced concerns about environmental impacts and noise, while opponents are also appealing the decision, with a judge indicating willingness to hear arguments. This local approval comes as Governor Josh Shapiro has issued an executive order placing new restrictions on data center construction statewide.
Middlesex Township supervisors in Cumberland County, Pennsylvania, voted to approve a data center development plan that has been a source of controversy. The decision followed a two-and-a-half-hour public comment period where residents expressed strong opposition.
Opponents appealed to the supervisors, citing concerns about environmental impacts, noise from construction, and the disruption to the quiet nature of the township. One 16-year-old resident questioned the supervisors' respect for the environment, while others reported their homes rattling from nearby construction. Some voices, including representatives from plumbers and pipefitters and iron workers unions, supported the project due to the construction jobs it would create.
The vote for final approval was cast by the supervisors despite the data center already being six months into construction on Country Club Road without formal approval. Two of the three supervisors claimed they had no choice but to vote yes for the project, leading to audible dismay from the audience.
This local development occurs against a backdrop of wider regulatory changes. Pennsylvania Governor Josh Shapiro recently issued an executive order implementing new restrictions on data center construction. Furthermore, a judge in Cumberland County has indicated a preliminary willingness to hear arguments from opponents who are appealing the data center's approval, suggesting ongoing legal challenges to the project.