Plymouth Township data center plan draws neighbor concerns over noise, emissions
Residents are strongly opposing Hines' proposed 2 million-square-foot data center at 900 Conshohocken Road in Plymouth Township, citing noise, emissions, pollution, vibration and the proposed proximity of gas turbines to homes, children and playgrounds. The project is not a permitted use under the township code and requires a special exception; a zoning board hearing remains ongoing, with public comment to be held later.
A packed Plymouth Township zoning board hearing addressed Hines' proposal for a roughly 2 million-square-foot data center on a former steel plant site at 900 Conshohocken Road in Montgomery County. Because data centers are not currently a permitted use under township code, Hines must obtain a special exception. The developer presented testimony and evidence, while the board considered requests from nearby residents, business owners and property owners to participate formally in the proceedings.
Neighbors including Roger and Amber Finch and resident Jamie Stilson raised concerns about diesel and other generator emissions, noise, pollution, vibration and the reported placement of gas turbines within a few hundred feet of homes, a school bus stop and neighborhood playgrounds. Residents said they intend to follow the process and seek to stop the project. The zoning board granted some requests for party standing, which allows participants to take part in the case and potentially appeal a decision, while public input was postponed to a later date and larger venue.