Plymouth Township Sets 43 Requirements for Proposed Data Center Development

Plymouth Township, located in the Philadelphia suburbs, is addressing community concerns regarding a proposed 2 million-square-foot data center development by developer Brian O'Neill. Local governments across the United States have noted that constituents are cautious about data centers, with many advocating for these facilities to contribute to local taxes, fund infrastructure upgrades, minimize noise, and provide fair wages to local employees. While developers often express willingness to meet community demands, they may reconsider when faced with specific requirements, as seen in this case. Under Pennsylvania law, the township cannot outright deny lawful land use but can enforce zoning regulations and impose project mitigations for health and safety.