Controversial AI data center proposal has been resurrected outside Conshohocken

Developer Brian O’Neill has resubmitted plans for a 2 million-square-foot artificial intelligence data center in Plymouth Township, Pennsylvania, near Conshohocken. The proposal revives a similar project that faced legal hurdles six months prior, which led to its withdrawal. The chosen site is the former Cleveland-Cliffs steel mill at 900 Conshohocken Rd., a 66-acre parcel along the Schuylkill River. The project continues to face significant local opposition. Over 1,200 residents have signed an online petition, citing concerns about noise, light, and air pollution, as well as potential impacts on water usage and electricity costs. Opponents previously packed a November zoning hearing board meeting where O'Neill's team was compelled to withdraw their initial application due to questions regarding legal standing. O'Neill's team is once again seeking a special zoning exception, arguing that a data center is akin to a permitted warehouse or laboratory use in the heavy industrial zone and would offer financial benefits to the area. Plymouth Township officials have acknowledged the strong public interest and stated that the zoning hearing board will schedule a public hearing within 60 days to evaluate the application, ensuring residents can voice their opinions. If approved by the zoning board, the project would then proceed through a further land development review process.