PA gubernatorial candidate Stacy Garrity calls for pause on data center development
Pennsylvania gubernatorial candidate Stacy Garrity is calling for a pause on data center development in the commonwealth until families and taxpayers are protected. This move follows Governor Shapiro's announcement of new "GRID" standards for developers, which aim to address community concerns regarding water usage, energy demands, and zoning. Data center growth has become a hot-button issue in the state due to these environmental and infrastructural impacts.
Pennsylvania gubernatorial candidate Stacy Garrity has called for a statewide pause on data center development, citing concerns over water usage, energy demands, noise, zoning, infrastructure, and impacts on farmland. Garrity, a Republican treasurer, launched a petition advocating for the halt until "families, taxpayers, consumers and ratepayers are protected," criticizing Governor Josh Shapiro for previously "rolling out the red carpet" for such projects.
The candidate's statement follows Governor Shapiro's recent announcement of "Governor's Responsible Infrastructure Development (GRID)" standards. These standards aim to set a higher bar for data center developers, requiring them to submit comprehensive plans addressing energy needs, community outreach, workforce development, and sustainability, including water usage.
Data center development has become a contentious issue across Pennsylvania, with communities voicing increasing concerns about its environmental and infrastructural ramifications. CBS 21 has sought comment from Governor Shapiro's office regarding Garrity's recent remarks.