Genesee County residents pack public hearing to oppose proposed $19b data center project

A public hearing in the Town of Alabama, Genesee County, New York, drew a significant turnout as residents and members of the Seneca Nation expressed vehement opposition to Stream Data Centers' proposed $19 billion "Project Double Reed." The project, slated for 130 acres within the Genesee County Science Technology and Advanced Manufacturing Park, would feature a 2.2 million square foot data center campus. Developers, including Mark Massey, president and CEO of the Genesee County Economic Development Center (GCEDC), highlighted the creation of 125 permanent jobs and nearly $1.5 billion in tax breaks. However, opponents voiced serious concerns regarding environmental impacts, particularly water usage and power consumption, with some questioning the accuracy of the project's environmental estimates and its proximity to Seneca Nation land. Massey confirmed that the New York Independent System Operators (NYISO) approved a request for 600 megawatts for the site after five years of work. The Town of Alabama's Planning Board previously cancelled a public hearing due to incomplete sound study reviews. Town Supervisor Robert Crossen stated that the town would continue a thorough review, considering public input and adhering to legal processes. Town officials, including Board and Planning Board members, fire department leaders, the Town Attorney, Engineer, and a County Planning representative, visited data center facilities in Texas for informational purposes as part of their ongoing assessment. No timeline has been provided for a final decision on the project.