The proposed transformation of a former steel mill in Conshohocken, Pennsylvania, into a data center has sparked significant local opposition. On December 1, 2025, residents of Saline, Michigan, rallied against the $7 billion Stargate data center, reflecting a growing discontent with data center projects nationwide. Developer Brian O’Neill has presented the project as a pathway to modernize manufacturing and support advancements in artificial intelligence.
O’Neill highlighted the potential economic benefits, claiming that the proposed facility could generate $21 million annually without imposing additional demands on local infrastructure or services. Despite the allure of tax revenue and job creation presented to local officials, many community members remain unconvinced, voicing concerns over the negative impact data centers could have on their neighborhoods.
As the U.S. sees billions of dollars invested in data center projects, the tension between economic development and community well-being continues to rise. Critics argue that while politicians may champion these initiatives, they often overlook the realities faced by residents living near these facilities.