Residents Rally Against Proposed 2M-SF Data Center in Conshohocken

URGENT UPDATE: Conshohocken-area residents are mobilizing against a controversial proposal for a massive 2 million-square-foot data center, just one mile from the borough’s bustling downtown. Developer Brian O’Neill aims to transform the site of the now-closed Cleveland-Cliffs steel mill, but local opposition is mounting ahead of a critical zoning board meeting scheduled for November 17.

Residents fear that the data center, which O’Neill claims could generate $21 million annually in tax revenue, will significantly harm the environment and raise energy costs. A petition against the project has already gathered over 370 signatures, highlighting growing concern among locals.

“We wanted to raise awareness, make sure that people were able to advocate for themselves,” said Patti Smith, who initiated the petition and lives nearby. “We don’t think that the local municipalities are ready to have these conversations.”

The proposed facility would occupy 66 acres along the Schuylkill River, encompassing ten existing buildings. While advocates argue that data centers are crucial for economic growth and job creation, opponents cite potential environmental risks, including increased energy consumption and water usage.

As demand for data centers surges, fueled by the rise of power-hungry artificial intelligence, residents express fears of escalating energy bills. A recent report from the Department of Energy projected that data center energy consumption in the U.S. could rise from less than 5% to between 6.7% and 12% by 2028.

“At that rate, we simply can’t build enough power generation to keep up,” warned Tom Schuster, president of the Pennsylvania chapter of the Sierra Club. “Prices will continue to rise rapidly.”

O’Neill has stated that the data center would utilize natural gas to generate energy, claiming it would reduce reliance on the grid. However, critics highlight the greenhouse gas emissions associated with natural gas and the potential for increased local air pollution.

“The direct impact on our air is my biggest concern,” said Genevieve Boland, who is leading the petition alongside Smith. “Research shows a clear link to higher risks of cancer and respiratory issues.”

Local residents are ramping up efforts to spread awareness about the proposal. Smith emphasized, “Our immediate next steps are to drum up as much attention as we can in the community.”

As the Plymouth Township zoning board prepares to deliberate on the proposal, the outcome could have lasting implications for the Conshohocken community and its environment. Residents are determined to ensure their voices are heard before any final decisions are made.

This is a developing story. Stay tuned for further updates as the situation unfolds.