Proposed $1B Data Center in Yaphank Faces Local Opposition

Data Center Proposed in Yaphank Sparks Debate Over Infrastructure and Innovation

A proposed $1 billion data center in Yaphank is stirring discussion in the local community over its potential impacts and benefits. The center, planned to span 549,000 square feet, aims to utilize an advanced cooling system to conserve water and promises significant economic contributions.

The Brookhaven Digital Infrastructure Facility, envisioned by WF Industrial (Wildflower), would repurpose three vacant warehouses on a 71-acre site without additional land clearing, according to Michael Bowden, Wildflower's director of development. The facility is strategically located near the Long Island Expressway, a few miles from residential neighborhoods and in proximity to the unused Brookhaven rail terminal land.

Bowden explained that the facility's core purpose is to support computer processing, communications, and data storage, creating 50 permanent jobs and over 1,000 construction roles. This project aligns with the growing trend in large-scale data centers, which demand substantial resources but are considered vital for advancing technology, including artificial intelligence.

Despite the potential benefits, the proposal faces hurdles. The Town of Brookhaven is contemplating an 18-month moratorium on data centers, partly due to underperformance in previous employment commitments tied to a tax-relief package. Community groups express skepticism, questioning the necessity and environmental impact of the facility.

"There will be no pass-down costs to LIPA/PSEG ratepayers because of this project," Bowden said, emphasizing that infrastructure costs would be absorbed by Wildflower. The facility plans to draw 176.6 megawatts from the Long Island Power Authority grid, with improvements like a new substation and diesel generators for emergencies being considered.

Local officials, including Brookhaven Town Supervisor Dan Panico, remain cautious. Concerns revolve around zoning compliance and the potential strain on power resources. Panico expects the town board to pass the moratorium, illustrating the community's apprehension.

LIPA's stance is that serving the new data center load should not compromise reliability, pending thorough engineering evaluations. Bowden assures that the project adheres to all noise and emission regulations, contrasting the data center's reduced truck traffic and emissions with its former warehouse use.

Amid regulatory and community discussions, Bowden stresses the project's significance for Long Island's future. "It’s more about continuing down this path toward the regulatory review process we’ve been in for some time," he said, as Wildflower remains committed to obtaining necessary approvals.

Monique Fitzgerald from the Long Island Progressive Coalition criticized Wildflower's lack of clarity on the center's necessity, reflecting local resistance. Nonetheless, Bowden believes the data center would generate significant tax revenue, benefitting local infrastructure and services.

Bowden acknowledges past challenges but maintains optimism about the project. The company seeks to educate stakeholders on the project's benefits while navigating the regulatory landscape to make the vision a reality.