Data center fight heads up in South Whitehall Township, Pennsylvania
Residents in South Whitehall Township, Pennsylvania are actively opposing a proposed 1.5 million square foot data center known as Project Atlas. Concerns include noise, potential increases in utility bills, and the proximity to a high school. The developers are slated to pitch their plans at an upcoming special Planning Commission meeting, with local officials stating they must review the project based on existing ordinances.
An ongoing dispute over data center developments is intensifying in communities nationwide, with a notable conflict emerging in South Whitehall Township, Lehigh County, Pennsylvania. Local resident Laurie Gilley expressed concern over Project Atlas, a proposed 1.5 million square foot data center planned directly across from her home and 1,700 feet from Parkland High School.
The South Whitehall Township Civic Alliance has rallied in opposition to Project Atlas, citing noise pollution and potential increases in utility bills as primary concerns. While the developers of Project Atlas have not yet responded to inquiries, their project website indicates plans to mitigate noise and cover 100% of their own power costs. However, Drexel finance professor Eliezer Fitch noted that even with self-generation, such large facilities consume significant power, which can impact local electricity prices. Fitch also highlighted that while data centers offer substantial tax revenue (Project Atlas claims over $16 million annually to the county, township, and school district) and temporary construction jobs, permanent employment opportunities are considerably fewer.
Township Manager Tom Petrucci emphasized that the township is legally bound to review the project neutrally and in compliance with existing ordinances, unless changes occur at the state level. This comes as Pennsylvania Governor Shapiro recently announced new regulations for data centers and state lawmakers have introduced various bills to further regulate such projects. The South Whitehall Township is expected to make a decision on Project Atlas before the end of the year, with the community vowing to continue its fight.
Project Atlas developers are scheduled to present their plans at a special Planning Commission meeting next Wednesday, which will take place at Parkland High School, across the street from the proposed site.