Story perspectives

Pennsylvania Towns Tighten Zoning Over Data Center Boom

6/17/2026

Summary

Story summary

Pennsylvania towns are amending zoning codes and setting setbacks to control new data-center locations.
Developers propose data centers covering about 14% of Archbald, sparking local backlash.
Proponents claim tax revenue gains and 15-30 permanent jobs, while critics cite high electricity, water, diesel emissions, heat and noise.
East Vincent Township, Jessup Borough and other municipalities now require conditional-use approvals and impact studies, following a Penn State Extension guide.

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Story summary

Pennsylvania towns are amending zoning codes and setting setbacks to control new data-center locations.
Developers propose data centers covering about 14% of Archbald, sparking local backlash.
Proponents claim tax revenue gains and 15-30 permanent jobs, while critics cite high electricity, water, diesel emissions, heat and noise.
East Vincent Township, Jessup Borough and other municipalities now require conditional-use approvals and impact studies, following a Penn State Extension guide.