WV residents say dust from data center project has been unbearable

Mason County, West Virginia residents are struggling with significant dust and potential chemical exposure stemming from a large-scale data center construction project adjacent to their homes. Neighbors describe the living conditions as "pretty miserable," with dust reducing visibility to as low as 30 feet and covering their properties, impacting daily life and prompting concerns about long-term health.

Following multiple dust complaints received on April 18th and 27th, the West Virginia Department of Environmental Protection (DEP) initiated an investigation through its Division of Air Quality (DAQ). The DAQ conducted an on-site investigation on April 30th, contacting the responsible party who admitted to having mechanical issues with their watering tankers, used for dust suppression, earlier that week. Necessary repairs were reportedly made, and subsequent inspections on May 14th, 27th, and 28th found the tankers operational and no dust leaving the site.

Despite the DEP's findings, one neighbor recounted a conversation with project manager Jason Becktold, who allegedly stated they had no dust mitigation plans or water trucks, a claim the DEP later confirmed regarding the non-operational status of their water trucks. Furthermore, residents have expressed concerns about potential chemical overspray from what was previously a soybean field, with a neighbor providing a soil sample to the VA. Many residents in the area, including those miles away, have reported respiratory issues such as sore throats, coughing, and even requiring inhalers, with one doctor reportedly linking symptoms to chemicals found in the soil sample. The DAQ states it will continue to investigate similar complaints and take appropriate action.