1. United States
2. Pa.
3. Letter

Governor Shapiro, I am writing as a concerned Pennsylvania resident. No matter how many positive accomplishments your administration can point to, I believe support will continue to erode if the concerns surrounding large-scale data center development are not addressed. Many residents do not want data centers built in or near their communities. I urge you to take a closer look at the experiences of neighborhoods that have already been impacted by these projects. Citizens are concerned about environmental damage, excessive water consumption, increased energy demands, noise pollution, and the long-term effects on local ecosystems. Many people fear that these facilities place significant strain on natural resources while providing limited benefits to the communities that host them. Pennsylvania's Constitution recognizes these concerns. Article I, Section 27 guarantees the people of this Commonwealth the right to clean air, pure water, and the preservation of our natural, scenic, historic, and esthetic values. It also establishes a responsibility for the Commonwealth to conserve and maintain these public natural resources for present and future generations. As Governor, I ask that you honor both the letter and spirit of this constitutional obligation by carefully examining the environmental impacts of proposed data centers and ensuring that the rights of Pennsylvania residents are protected before additional projects move forward. Residents deserve transparency regarding water use, energy consumption, environmental impacts, and any potential risks to soil and groundwater. Before approving additional projects, I hope your administration will thoroughly investigate these concerns and ensure that local communities have a meaningful voice in the decision-making process. Pennsylvanians want economic development, but not at the expense of their environment, natural resources, health, or quality of life.