Residents of Concord gathered at the city’s planning board meeting on Wednesday to discuss a proposal by Levitate Inc. and Northpoint Engineering to develop a micro‑data center on a vacant 21‑acre parcel on Locke Street. The developers plan a roughly 82,000‑square‑foot facility, with more than 7,000 square feet dedicated to a “mini data center” and a caregiver unit.
Public opposition highlights environmental worries
Several community members spoke out, emphasizing uncertainty about the project’s impact on local ecosystems. “We don’t really know what it’s going to do with the environment,” said resident Maureen Herrick, who lives a mile from the site. “I think that it’s disrespectful to the residents of Concord to try and slide this through. I don’t believe that this should be in Concord.”
Developers stress reduced footprint and water use
Levitate Inc. CEO Ryan Howard countered the concerns by noting that the micro‑data center would not be permanently connected to the municipal water system and would occupy a smaller footprint than traditional facilities. “We have some data centers that use up to 9 billion gallons of water and an incredible amount of power. This is the opposite of that design,” Howard said. He also claimed the facility would be quieter than the adjacent freeway.
Board orders further study before a final vote
The planning board did not render a final decision at the meeting. Instead, board members directed the applicants to commission a third‑party review of the project’s environmental and energy impacts. The board will reconvene on Nov. 18 to consider the findings and determine whether to approve the proposal.
Future expansion remains uncertain
Attendees also raised questions about the potential for future expansion of the micro‑data center. While the developers indicated that expansion is not part of the current plan, they did not categorically rule it out.
Implications for the community
If approved, the project could bring new technology infrastructure and jobs to Concord, while also raising concerns about noise, traffic, and long‑term environmental effects. The board’s request for an independent impact study reflects a cautious approach, ensuring that any decision aligns with the city’s commitment to responsible development and the well‑being of its residents.
Residents and local officials are encouraged to submit additional comments before the Nov. 18 meeting, providing the board with a fuller picture of community sentiment.
Original reporting: WMUR (Hearst) – local news — read the source article.
