Activist Helps Kill Data Center Proposal That Actually Sort Of Made Sense

An activist’s petition and protests helped halt a proposed $5 billion data centre on the site of a former mall in Landover, Maryland. The project’s pause reflects growing local opposition to data centres, while raising questions about how communities weigh environmental concerns against economic needs.

Taylor Frazier McCollum’s petition attracted more than 25,000 signatures, and local moratoriums followed. The county faces a budget deficit, falling tax revenue and job losses; Council Member Wanika Fisher said its economic future also needs attention. McCollum now wants a county-wide ban, citing concerns about water, diesel emissions and whether residents were consulted.