SOUTH WHITEHALL TWP., Pa. – While the proposed ‘Project Atlas’ data center wasn’t on Tuesday’s official agenda, South Whitehall Township residents made sure it dominated the Parkland School Board meeting.
Many parents and residents used public comment to urge district leaders to take a stand against the proposed 1.5 million square foot data center campus.
“We’re not asking you to zone the property. We’re asking for transparency in anything that impacts student safety, the learning environment and the long-term character of Parkland’s campus that we all love,” said resident George Rivera.
Many opponents warned of severe impacts on students and staff across the street from the 410-acre data center campus.
“When people talk about Project Atlas, they often talk about acreage, square footage, megawatts, substations and infrastructure. I see something different. The students. Athletes practicing on the fields after school, the marching band rehearsing in the parking lot, families attending games,” said resident Caren Lowrey.
But not everyone in the room shared the same perspective.
“If you don’t want a data center, what else? This property, along with many others, is zoned industrial. So, if a data center is kibosh, let’s say it is, what else would you like? Would you like an Amazon warehouse?” said resident Laura Warmkessel.
School leaders pushed back on claims that they have been silent on the data center, clarifying their position.
“This proposal as it is, is not something that is acceptable next to the high school. It’s been very clear that hasn’t wavered,” said Parkland School District Superintendent Dr. Mark Madson. “There will be time for the board to further discuss this once we have a better idea of what that proposal is to see what are the options that the district legally, actually has when it comes to this development.”
While some school leaders are speaking out, the ultimate decision on zoning and development still rests with South Whitehall Township officials.