Upper Merion Township’s Planning Commission held a May 27th session reviewing proposals from MLP Ventures for a cluster of data centers across multiple King of Prussia area sites, drawing intense public opposition and leaving the applications without a recommendation.
Upper Merion Planning Commission Weighs Multi-Site Data Center Plans
The agenda featured proposals spanning Renaissance Boulevard, Horizon Drive, and River and Swedeland roads.
Developer Brian O’Neill said the facilities would use closed-loop water, meet noise requirements, and deploy dark sky lighting.
Attendees raised environmental and nuisance concerns.
Members of Steamfitters Local 420 said the projects would create substantial construction work.
No action was taken, and further public meetings are expected.
Scale and Infrastructure Claims Shift Planning Assumptions
Filings arrived just before the township adopted a data center ordinance, setting up a prolonged review of large industrial-scale facilities.
O’Neill told officials the centers would provide their own power and offer excess to the grid.
He confirmed natural gas would be used.
Supporters said the developments would drive significant construction activity in the corridor.
For added context, proposed Upper Merion data center developments outline the multi-site scope now under review.
Leasing and Resident Communications Near Proposed Corridors
Tenant questions in nearby communities will likely focus on ambient sound and lighting, given the developer’s stated plans for code compliance.
Residents cited potential emissions, vibrations, and heat from the projects.
O’Neill claimed property tax revenue increases of 54% for the township and 28% for the school district, including $7,817 per child annually.
Earlier resident turnout at a township planning session helps signal sentiment landlords should monitor around King of Prussia and West Conshohocken assets.
Compliance Tracking During Ongoing Township Review
Planning Commission members said additional information is needed from the applicant team, keeping township standards central to any future nuisance enforcement.
During public comment, the tax collector cited delinquent payments by an O’Neill-affiliated entity, adding a fiscal trust consideration to the review environment.
Property managers near the proposed sites can use meeting outcomes to time building notices if construction ultimately advances.
Milestones to Watch in Upper Merion and Nearby Townships
Next steps include further Planning Commission hearings and, later, Board of Supervisors consideration.
The question of alignment with township ordinance parameters remains active.
Regional context includes renewed discussion of a related Plymouth Township data center proposal.
For continuity, expanded reporting on the Planning Commission review and public comments details positions aired at the hearing.