Proposed data center faces renewed opposition in Plymouth Township
A Plymouth Township Zoning Hearing for a proposed 2 million-square-foot data center in Montgomery County concluded without a decision, drawing renewed opposition from residents concerned about environmental impact and quality of life. Developer MLP Ventures argues the project offers significant economic benefits and tax revenue, stating many residents are misinformed. The board is expected to set a date for the next hearing on August 17.
The Plymouth Township Zoning Hearing, held in a middle school auditorium, concluded without a decision on a contentious 2 million-square-foot data center project proposed for the former Cleveland-Cliffs steel mill site on Conshohocken Road in Montgomery County, Pennsylvania.
Residents, including Amber Boyd-Finch and Robert Finch, whose home would be near the site, expressed ongoing opposition due to concerns about environmental impact and quality of life. Ardis Lukens, another local, also voiced concerns about potential pollution and argued that data centers are not suitable for densely populated areas.
Developer Brian O'Neill of MLP Ventures countered, highlighting the economic benefits, including an estimated $424 million in tax revenue over 20 years, additional funding for the Colonial School District, and thousands of jobs. O'Neill claimed he has agreed to most of the township's demands and believes public opposition is fueled by misinformation. The atmosphere during the two-and-a-half-hour hearing was tense, with residents booing and holding signs, though no public comment was allowed. The board is slated to announce the date for the next hearing on August 17.