Rostraver Township, PA, founded in 1773, is a beautiful place to live, with large green spaces and easy access to local and regional amenities. As a rural and suburban township with a population of less than 12,000 people, Rostraver is steadily growing. New homes are being built, and families are continuously joining our warm and thriving community. We pride ourselves on being hard-working and community-focused, ensuring that our environment remains enjoyable for generations to come.

However, the impending possibility  of data centers threatens to alter the character and quality of life in Rostraver Township. Data centers, often massive in size, consume incredible amounts of land, water, and energy. They release heat, raise local temperatures, pollute nearby bodies of water, and require substantial infrastructure changes, which would destroy the pristine nature of our cherished landscapes. Additionally, these facilities generally offer limited employment opportunities, providing little or no benefit to our local economy or community job market.

The environmental and aesthetic impacts of data centers are significant. Their construction and operation lead to increased noise, traffic, pollution, and carbon footprints. Much is still unknown about long-term health impacts on humans and animals living near data centers, although reports regarding nearby water quality changes across the country are alarming. The natural beauty of our township, and the health of its residents, could be irrevocably damaged.

We urge local authorities and decision-makers to preserve the integrity and charm of Rostraver Township by halting any plans for data center construction here. Recent legislative activity in the PA House (such as HB2198) is focused on granting municipalities power to reject data center developments. We are asking that the township make efforts to seek solutions that align with our community's values, and develop legal protections from data center development within the township in order to preserve its residents’ quality of life without sacrificing our pristine surroundings.

Sign this petition to protect Rostraver Township and to advocate for sustainable, community-focused development that maintains the spirit and tranquility of our home.