Massena Planning Board begins pre-submission review of proposed data center
The Massena Planning Board has referred a proposed large-scale data center at the former Alcoa East site to the Zoning Board of Appeals to determine if it is a permitted use under current zoning regulations. The developer, New York Digital Investment Group (NYDIG), plans to expand a Bitcoin mining operation requiring 635 megawatts of power and a closed-loop cooling system. The project's compliance with zoning, energy, noise, traffic, and water usage will be reviewed by consultants funded by the developer's escrow account.
The Massena Planning Board has initiated a pre-submission review for a proposed large-scale data center at the former Alcoa East site, referring the project to the Zoning Board of Appeals (ZBA) to clarify if such a facility is a permitted use within an industrial zone under current town regulations. According to Planning Board Chairman Vance Fleury, data centers are not explicitly authorized in that zone. The developer, New York Digital Investment Group (NYDIG), which is owned by Stone Ridge Asset Management and holds a stake in Coinmint (the current operator), intends to expand an existing Bitcoin mining operation at the site.
St. Lawrence County Planning Board's review prompted the referral to the ZBA. If the project is deemed non-compliant, it will either require a use variance or an amendment to the town's code. NYDIG has established a $100,000 escrow account to fund consultants who will evaluate various aspects of the plan, including energy usage (635 megawatts), noise, traffic, and a proposed closed-loop cooling system. Board member David Grant expressed skepticism regarding the efficacy of the proposed cooling system without significant water intake, prompting a request for an in-depth engineering review. Consultants will also review emergency response, fire protection, and the project's fiscal and economic impact, which are outside the scope of the State Environmental Quality Review (SEQR).