San Gabriel Valley Residents Fighting Data Centers Hit a 12-Mile-Long Snag
San Gabriel Valley residents and community groups are opposing proposed data centers, including a planned 10-megawatt facility at the Puente Hills Mall in the City of Industry. Critics cite air pollution, noise, water use, grid strain and higher utility costs, while arguing that the City of Industry’s permissive zoning and limited accountability leave neighboring communities with little influence.
Residents across the San Gabriel Valley are organizing against proposed data centers, with particular attention focused on the City of Industry and a potential 10-megawatt facility at the Puente Hills Mall site. Community organizers say the projects could worsen air quality and noise, increase pressure on water and electricity systems, and raise utility costs for surrounding communities. Raeden Inc. said it previously explored a City of Industry site but is no longer actively pursuing a project there, while city officials said no data center plans have been approved.
Opponents have faced the City of Industry’s broad industrial zoning and limited residential electorate. In February, the City Council changed zoning rules to allow data centers and battery storage systems virtually throughout the city. Separately, Los Angeles County supervisors approved a study of data center impacts, and the county later enacted a temporary moratorium on hyperscale data centers in unincorporated areas. Supervisor Hilda Solis postponed a proposal that could make the ban permanent, citing the need to address labor and workforce concerns. The county action would not cover projects within incorporated cities such as the City of Industry.