FRACKVILLE — The opposition over a proposed data center near Frackville is growing, with the West Mahanoy Township Board of Supervisors now going on record against the project.
In a letter dated September 25, 2025, and addressed to the New Castle Township Board of Supervisors, West Mahanoy Chairman Paul “Pepper” Martin and Vice-Chairman Michael “Mickey” Kayes outlined a series of concerns raised by residents at their most recent public meeting.
According to the letter, West Mahanoy Township’s main objections include:
- Electricity and water usage: Fears that the facility’s demand could drain resources relied upon by township residents.
- Noise pollution: Continuous operation of cooling fans that could worsen noise levels after the removal of trees that currently buffer sound from Interstate 81.
- Traffic congestion: Anticipated disruptions on Vo-Tech Road during construction.
- Light pollution: Loss of natural forested cover, increasing glare into residential areas.
The West Mahanoy Township action comes after community members in Frackville began formally organizing against the same proposal. Residents argue the data center — described as a multi-building complex with eight-story structures — is ill-suited for a hillside zoned for conservation and currently serving as a natural buffer between Frackville and Interstate 81.
Organizers have cited risks ranging from air quality and wildlife displacement to heavy utility demand and declining home values. Many have urged developers to seek alternative locations such as nearby industrial parks with existing infrastructure.
For the project to move forward, New Castle Township officials would need to consider zoning changes or approvals, since the site remains designated for conservation use. With mounting opposition from both residents and neighboring municipalities, the proposal is expected to draw intense scrutiny if and when it comes before the township board.
Community members continue to circulate a petition opposing the project and plan to raise concerns at upcoming township meetings, including the Butler Township meeting scheduled for Monday, September 29, 2025, at 5:00 p.m. in Fountain Springs.
Organizers have cited risks ranging from air quality and wildlife displacement to heavy utility demand and declining home values. Many have urged developers to seek alternative locations such as nearby industrial parks with existing infrastructure.
For the project to move forward, New Castle Township officials would need to consider zoning changes or approvals, since the site remains designated for conservation use. With mounting opposition from both residents and neighboring municipalities, the proposal is expected to draw intense scrutiny if and when it comes before the township board.
Community members continue to circulate a petition opposing the project and plan to raise concerns at upcoming township meetings, including the Butler Township meeting scheduled for Monday, September 29, 2025, at 5:00 p.m. in Fountain Springs.