Middlesex Twp. supervisors approve PAX-1 data center development matters

Middlesex Township supervisors voted to approve the controversial PAX-1 data center development, which is already six months into construction on Country Club Road. The decision followed a 2.5-hour public comment period where most residents expressed strong opposition, citing concerns about noise, environmental impact, and the feeling that the decision was being made without their input. One 16-year-old resident questioned the supervisors' respect for the environment, while another resident reported home rattling from construction blasts.

Despite the widespread public outcry, two supervisors stated they felt they had no choice but to approve the final development matters. A minority of voices, including plumbers and pipefitters and iron workers unions, supported the data center due to the construction jobs it brings, aligning with the industry on PAX-1.

This local approval comes amidst broader state-level actions. Last month, Governor Josh Shapiro issued an executive order placing significant new restrictions on data center construction statewide. Furthermore, a Cumberland County judge has preliminarily indicated a willingness to hear an appeal that could potentially halt construction of the PAX-1 data center, leaving its future uncertain.