‘Mini data center’ in the planning stages in Lawrence County
Saadia Holdings is proposing a 135,000-square-foot data center in Union Township near the Shenango River in Lawrence County. The project is in its early planning stages, with a conditional use application submitted and future informational sessions, a public hearing and a final township decision still required.
Saadia Holdings presented an early proposal for a 135,000-square-foot “mini data center” near Route 422 in Union Township, Lawrence County. The site is near Sampson Street, Rapson Avenue and East Harbor Road, and includes nearby residences and the Shenango River. The developer says the facility would use a closed-loop cooling system that recycles water, but details about the facility type and electricity demand have not been released.
Saadia has submitted a conditional use application, which is needed because the proposed development does not conform to the site’s current zoning. Township Zoning Officer Linda Farris said more detailed plans are expected after Jan. 1, 2027, followed by possible planning meetings, a public hearing and a final decision by the township supervisors. Attorney Chris Papa, who represents Saadia locally, said the project could employ more than 100 people and benefit the community.