Runoff from data center project floods neighborhood for a second time
A data center construction site, referred to as the Monarch site, has caused a second flooding incident in a Mason County neighborhood, impacting homes and outbuildings. Despite previous measures, storm water runoff continues to be an issue, leading some residents to consider leaving through a voluntary home purchasing program offered by Monarch. The company is now reassessing its drainage controls to prevent future occurrences.
Residents in a Mason County, West Virginia neighborhood are experiencing repeat flooding due to runoff from a nearby data center construction site, identified as the Monarch site. On July 11th, heavy rains caused water to impact two crawl spaces and several outbuildings in the Meadowlands area for the second time this year, following a similar event in May.
Neighbors report that since construction began, they have endured issues with noise, dust, and concerns about legacy contaminants being disturbed. After the first flood, Monarch officials stated they implemented additional stormwater controls, including silt fencing, berms, and drainage paths. However, the recent storm revealed these measures were insufficient, prompting the company to reassess its drainage lines and enhancement efforts.
Monarch Liaison Jason Batchelor confirmed that the company is actively monitoring the site and working to address the damage. In response to the ongoing issues and community distress, Monarch launched a voluntary home purchasing program last month, with 30 homes already in the process of being acquired. This program offers residents deals based on three independent valuations, with Monarch using the highest figure and adding a premium. For many families, this means the difficult decision of leaving homes they have owned for decades.