Neighbors demand answers as Mason County data center construction damages properties
Residents in Mason County, West Virginia, are experiencing significant property damage and disruption from the construction of a new data center, including vibrations, flooding due to stormwater control failure, and tree damage. Neighbors are demanding answers and plan to continue voicing their concerns over the project's impact. The West Virginia DEP is investigating the stormwater control failure, and the company involved has committed to covering cleanup costs.
In Point Pleasant, West Virginia, residents of the Meadowland Estates neighborhood are experiencing severe property damage and disruption due to the ongoing construction of a new data center. Homeowner Joshua Jeffers described constant vibrations that rattle his house and a surge of "for sale" signs in the neighborhood, with properties struggling to sell. Concerns also include light and noise pollution from future generators.
The area recently experienced heavy rainfall, leading to the failure of the construction site's silt fence and subsequent flooding of homes. While the West Virginia DEP stated that stormwater control structures were installed correctly prior to the rain, the cause of the failure is under investigation. The unnamed construction company has committed to covering cleanup and repair costs from the flood.
Jeffers also reported earlier damages, including 12 to 15 trees cut down on his property and his fence being destroyed twice by falling trees, resulting in the loss of five chickens. Neighbors are collectively demanding answers and have expressed their intention to continue voicing concerns about the project.