Plan to build data center in Genesee County faces opposition at public hearing

A public hearing for Stream Data Center's proposed $19.46 billion data center in the town of Alabama, Genesee County, New York, drew a large turnout, with most speakers opposing the project. The proposed facility, planned for the Genesee County Economic Development Center's (GCEDC) STAMP site, has raised concerns among neighbors and residents of the nearby Tonawanda Seneca Nation territory regarding environmental issues, potential stress on the power grid, and noise pollution. Terry Adams, a Tonawanda Seneca Nation resident, emphasized the unmeasurable social, environmental, and spiritual costs of the project. Conversely, union representatives supported the project, citing its potential to create 1,200 construction jobs and 125 permanent positions. Óisín Ó Murchú, Stream Data Centers' chief development officer, addressed concerns by stating a substation is already under construction to handle power demands and that noise pollution would be minimal. He also acknowledged a lack of industry trust but expressed the company's commitment to building community relations. If approved, the Stream Data Center would be one of the largest in the United States.