When I first heard about the possibility about a new data center moving into the old Hynix building in West Eugene, I felt a growing knot of concern in my stomach. This area, is surrounded by vibrant wetlands teeming with life.  New apartments and local businesses have sprouted in the area and the thought of a massive data center disrupting this area alarms me deeply.

The proposed data center could have significant implications on our local environment and community. Data centers are known to consume vast amounts of electricity and water, strain existing infrastructure, and generate noise and heat, which could affect local wildlife and our community’s quality of life. The wetlands in our area are not just picturesque; they are vital ecosystems that support diverse species and help in flood control.

The potential increase in traffic, pollution, and resource consumption also raises red flags for urban dwellers nearby. New residents in the recently constructed apartments, as well as existing homeowners and business owners, may find their daily lives disrupted by this development. Furthermore, the increase in power usage could strain our local power grid, leading to increased energy costs for residents.

We believe our community deserves better. Rather than introducing a data center, we should prioritize developments that enhance our natural surroundings and support sustainable growth. We encourage city planners to explore alternative locations for the data center – ones that do not compromise the integrity of our cherished environment and community.

Join us in making sure our voices are heard. We must protect our wetlands, safeguard our community, and ensure that ongoing development is aligned with the sustainable values we uphold in Eugene. Let us demand a halt to this data center project until a thorough environmental impact assessment is conducted and alternative solutions are considered.

Please sign this petition to help us preserve West Eugene. Together, we can ensure that future developments respect both the people who live here and the rich natural habitat we value so dearly.