Meeting on AI data center in N.J. called off, frustrating residents
Residents in Kenilworth, New Jersey, expressed frustration after a planning board meeting to discuss a 400,000 square foot AI data center was canceled due to lack of quorum. The project by CoreWeave is causing concerns among locals regarding rising electric bills and environmental impacts such as noise, air, light, and water pollution. The planning board had previously approved the redevelopment at the site last year.
Residents in Kenilworth, New Jersey, are expressing significant frustration and anger over the development of a 400,000 square foot AI data center by CoreWeave at a former pharmaceutical site. A scheduled Kenilworth Planning Board meeting to discuss the project was canceled due to a lack of quorum, leaving dozens of concerned residents unable to voice their concerns. Tempers flared among constituents who packed the meeting, with many believing the project is illegitimate and that contracts have already been signed.
Local residents from several Union County towns are protesting the data center, citing worries about rising electric bills and various environmental impacts, including noise, air, light, and water pollution. Despite these concerns, the Planning Board had approved the redevelopment at the site last year. CoreWeave, the company constructing the center on Galloping Hill Road, stated that they undertook the project with encouragement from local and state policymakers, emphasizing that their facility is designed to be a responsible neighbor and support long-term economic activity. The borough's attorney declined to comment on next steps for legal reasons. Officials indicate that CoreWeave plans to hold a public forum in June to address residents' questions.