Your area Not set — showing everywhere
Issue · Lowell, MA

Data Center Development Moratorium

Residents cite noise, emissions, and utility strain while developers seek jobs; 360-day freeze now in place to study impacts.

Overview

Planning Board and City Council held public hearings on a zoning amendment for a 360-day moratorium on new data centers. Testimony highlighted diesel generators near schools and grid/water demands versus economic benefits.

Arguments in favor
Moratorium allows time to create zoning framework and Community Benefits Agreements protecting residents.
city-council 2026-03-10
For
Arguments against
Subdivision proposals seen as attempts to bypass moratorium; concerns over industrial impacts on residential areas.
planning-board 2026-04-06
Against
What's next

360-day study period for new regulations

data centermoratoriumzoningnoiseinfrastructure