Data center proves a tough sell at Elizabeth Township town hall
A developer presented an early proposal for a 3 million-square-foot, 20-building data center campus and natural gas power plant on a former landfill in Elizabeth Township. Residents strongly opposed the project, citing potential water, electricity, noise and environmental impacts, while local officials said they need more information before considering it.
Developer Tim Hendricks faced boos and questions at an Elizabeth Township town hall while presenting an initial concept for a 549-acre data center campus near the Youghiogheny River. The proposal could include 20 buildings totaling about 3 million square feet and an associated natural gas power plant, but Hendricks has not submitted formal plans or applied for permits. He said another company would eventually build and operate the site.
Residents and environmental advocates raised concerns about water and electricity demand, noise, proximity to homes and the project's environmental effects. Joelle Whiteman of Food & Water Watch said she had collected 350 signatures opposing the development, while state Rep. Andrew Kuzma said he opposed the project in its entirety. Township Commission President Josh Walls said the proposal remained in the discussion phase and that he could not support it without adequate answers to residents' concerns.