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

The Town of Alabama, New York, recently hosted a public hearing regarding a contentious $19 billion data center project, "Project Double Reed," proposed by Stream Data Centers. The project, slated for approximately 130 acres within the Genesee County Science Technology and Advanced Manufacturing Park, has drawn significant opposition from local residents and members of the Seneca Nation, who packed the meeting to voice their concerns. Opponents highlighted environmental impacts, particularly the project's substantial water usage and power consumption, as well as noise concerns. One resident challenged the developers' water usage estimates, while Jim Joyner, a long-time neighbor, disputed noise projections. A representative of the Tonawanda Seneca Nation also noted the project's proximity to their land, viewing it as a continued affront. Mark Massey, president and CEO of the Genesee County Economic Development Center (GCEDC), addressed some criticisms, stating that water usage estimates were closer to 13,000 gallons per day and that the New York Independent System Operators (NYISO) had approved a request for 600 megawatts for the site. He acknowledged "misinformation" but opponents countered that the GCEDC was the source. The Town of Alabama's Planning Board previously canceled a public hearing due to incomplete sound study reviews. Town Supervisor Robert Crossen stated the town will continue a thorough review, considering all input, but no decision timeline has been set. Town officials, including the Town Board and Planning Board members, recently visited data center facilities in Texas to better understand their operations. The project's zoning status, which allowed for data centers, dates back to 2012.