The King of Prussia data center complex is rejected by Upper Merion Township officials

The Upper Merion Township Board of Supervisors unanimously rejected a proposed 5-million-square-foot AI data-center campus, a decision met with applause from residents. The rejection came after a contentious three-hour meeting marked by fiery exchanges between developer Brian O'Neill and township officials.

O'Neill had sued the township, its planning commission, and board of supervisors, alleging unfair treatment and a violation of his right to an extension. A Montgomery County Court judge initially ordered a halt to proceedings, but later vacated the order, allowing the supervisors to proceed with their meeting and vote. Prior to the final vote, all but one public comment opposed the data centers, echoing months of resident protests, lawn signs, and a Change.org petition signed by approximately 18,000 people. Residents expressed concerns about pollution, noise, light, electricity prices, property values, and quality of life.

Montgomery County Commissioner Neil K. Makhija supported the residents, stating the decision would impact other communities considering data center development. O'Neill defended his project, highlighting its potential economic benefits, claims of high environmental standards with a closed-loop water system and self-generated power, and an economic impact study projecting over 10,000 construction jobs and $55 million annually in local tax revenue. However, the Upper Merion Township Tax Collector disputed O'Neill's figures.

O'Neill, who also faces a data center dispute in nearby Plymouth Township, indicated he plans to appeal the Upper Merion board's denial.