06/09/2026
Dear Residents,
I am writing to provide an important update regarding the proposed data center application that had been submitted by American Tower Company (“Applicant”) for consideration in East Greenwich Township by the Planning and Zoning Board.
Late yesterday afternoon, our Planning Board attorney was notified that the Applicant has formally withdrawn their application and will no longer be pursuing approval of the proposed data center project before the Planning and Zoning Board. As a result, there are no pending applications for a data center before the Township and the special meeting on June 30, 2026, at Samuel Mickle School will be cancelled.
Throughout this process, the application underwent a comprehensive and detailed review by the Township's professional staff and consultants. The Applicant received review comments from numerous professionals, including the Township Traffic Engineer, Township Planner, and our Township Engineer, which also included an Acoustic Expert Report, in order to be thorough and to consider all potential impacts on our township and residents. The reviews provided by these township appointed professionals evaluated all aspects of the proposal, including traffic, land use, ordinance compliance, engineering, and acoustic concerns.
Throughout this process, the Township's role was to ensure that this application, as well as all applications, are reviewed in accordance with applicable laws, ordinances, and procedures while providing opportunities for public participation and input. We remained committed to conducting the process fairly, openly, and transparently.
Over the past several months, this proposal has generated significant public interest and discussion throughout our community. I want to thank the residents who attended meetings, submitted comments, asked questions, and participated in the process. Regardless of individual viewpoints, the level of civic engagement demonstrated by our residents reflects the strength of our community and our shared commitment to the future of East Greenwich Township.
In response to concerns raised by residents and the evolving understanding of data center development, the Township Committee also took proactive steps to evaluate the long-term impact such facilities may have on our community. As part of that effort, the Township was one of the first municipalities in South Jersey to adopt an ordinance to prohibit future data center development within East Greenwich Township.
The Township remains committed to protecting the character of our community, preserving our quality of life, and ensuring that future development aligns with our prepared master plan and the values and expectations of our residents.
I would also like to thank our Township staff, our professionals, the Planning and Zoning Board members, our Superintendent at East Greenwich Schools, Andrea Evans, and our elected officials who dedicated significant time and effort to reviewing information, answering questions, and addressing concerns throughout this process.
East Greenwich Township has always benefited from residents who care deeply about their community, and your involvement continues to play an important role in shaping its future.
Thank you for your continued engagement and support.
Sincerely,
Jim Philbin
Mayor
East Greenwich Township
