Washington County Residents Debate Data Center Project at Public Hearing
A public hearing in Washington County, Pennsylvania, saw over 100 residents debate a proposed data center complex by Prime Data Centers. The project, which includes seven data center buildings and an independent power plant, is facing opposition from citizens concerned about noise, light, air, water, and electrical pollution. Four additional hearings have been scheduled to address the conditional use permits.
A heated public hearing was held in Washington County, Pennsylvania, regarding a proposal by Prime Data Centers to construct a large data center complex at Starpointe Industrial Park. The project involves building seven data center facilities along with an independent power generation plant.
The hearing, held at the Hanover Volunteer Fire Department, drew over 100 residents from Hanover Township and nearby municipalities like Burgettstown. Emanuel Paris, a contractor whose family company, Altian Development, owns the land and is partnering with Prime, spoke in favor of the project, highlighting the potential for local construction jobs and minimal community impact due to the secluded location.
However, many residents, including Patricia Cipa of Burgettstown, expressed strong opposition, citing concerns about noise, light, air, water, and electrical pollution. The concerns indicate a significant division within the community regarding the development.
Due to the intense debate and numerous remaining witnesses, the Hanover Township solicitor has scheduled four additional public hearings for September 21, 24, 29, and 30, where Prime Data Centers' representatives are expected to continue testifying.