Shrewsbury bylaw change would ban large-scale data centers, help control drone delivery
Shrewsbury is considering zoning bylaw changes that would require impact reports and special permits for medium-sized data centers while prohibiting facilities using 10 megawatts or more. The proposed rules would also address electrical infrastructure, water demand and utility capacity ahead of a December Town Meeting.
Shrewsbury Planning Director Christopher McGoldrick presented proposed bylaw changes that would establish data center size categories and regulate their land-use impacts. Tier 1 and Tier 2 facilities would require special permits and capacity and utility impact reports covering electrical infrastructure, water demand and utility capacity, while Tier 3 facilities using 10 megawatts or more would be prohibited.
The proposal has drawn opposition from Planning Board member Stephan Rodolakis, who argued that the town could benefit from tax revenue and utility sales if a large facility paid for necessary infrastructure upgrades. The same bylaw package would regulate drone delivery landing sites through definitions, zoning restrictions, noise studies and emergency response requirements, while the Federal Aviation Administration would retain authority over drone flight operations.