Mason County neighbors report heavy dust from data center construction
Residents in Mason County, West Virginia, are reporting significant dust and air quality issues stemming from a nearby data center construction site. The West Virginia Department of Environmental Protection (DEP) has received multiple complaints and is investigating, noting that the responsible party initially had mechanical issues with dust suppression equipment but has since made repairs. Neighbors also voice concerns about potential chemical contamination from the site's previous use.
Residents in Mason County, West Virginia, are experiencing adverse environmental impacts due to a large-scale data center construction project, with Joshua Jeffers reporting heavy dust covering homes and causing respiratory issues. Neighbors have lodged three dust complaints with the West Virginia Department of Environmental Protection (DEP) on April 18th and 27th.
The DEP investigated on April 30th and confirmed that the construction site had experienced mechanical issues with its watering tankers, which are crucial for dust suppression. The responsible party has since made the necessary repairs. Subsequent DEP inspections on May 14th, 27th, and 28th found no dust leaving the site, and the agency stated it would continue to investigate future complaints.
Concerns also extend to potential soil contamination, as the site was formerly a soybean field. Jeffers noted that nearby residents, including those miles away at the fairgrounds, have reported sore throats, coughing, and other respiratory problems, which his doctor linked to chemicals found in a soil sample. The DEP acknowledged the proximity of a former West Virginia Ordinance Works site, which is on the EPA's National Priority List for hazardous substances, but stated that the current construction site has never been part of that restricted area and no WVOW-related contaminants have been identified on the data center site.