Data Centers

More than 200 Frederick County residents gathered at St. Joseph on Carrollton Manor Thursday night to make their voices heard on data centers.

The land available for data center development in Frederick County could be significantly limited by a map before the state for review.

Six organizations in five counties have formed the Maryland Data Centers Analysis Group to make sure local leaders receive information at the right time.

The seven member council accepted only four of eleven amendments to a bill meant to limit the growth of data centers.

Opponents fear bill limiting size of data centers could force Frederick County to rely on the Maryland Piedmont Reliability project, even as the County Council stands opposed to the 70-mile power line.

The Maryland Piedmont Reliability Project is a 70-mile transmission line cutting through three counties. Utility companies say it is necessary to meet increasing energy consumption, but community members and environmentalist are concerned.