Johnson County residents speak out against new data center proposal in Gardner, Kansas

A new proposal for a massive 16-building data center on approximately 300 acres in Gardner, Kansas, is facing significant opposition from local residents. The site, located at 191st Street and South Clare Road, was recently incorporated into the city, though some neighboring properties remain in unincorporated Johnson County. Residents, who learned about the plan recently, have started a petition that has garnered over 650 signatures. Concerns primarily revolve around constant noise pollution, including "infrasound" which is below human hearing but is believed by some to cause anxiety, nausea, and dizziness with unknown long-term effects on children. Residents Kevin and Cindy Dye, whose property is directly across from the proposed site, fear the project would destroy their backyard paradise and significantly devalue their home. Nurse Kaela Eisenbarger, another neighbor, also voiced worries about health impacts and property value decline, stating her family would likely move if the data center is built. Beale Infrastructure is identified as the company behind the proposal, with Evelyn Strong, who owns the 298.2-acre property, and her husband, Daniel Strong, cited by neighbors as the driving forces. Daniel Strong declined to comment when questioned. Residents plan to attend the Gardner City Council meeting on Monday night and Beale Infrastructure is scheduled to hold a public Q&A session.