Residents in Wyoming are expressing strong opposition to proposed “man camps” intended to accommodate thousands of out-of-state workers coming to assist in the construction of large data centers that consume significant energy. This reflects a growing trend of local pushback against similar developments across the country.
Local officials are reportedly assessing a proposal from Iron Guard Housing for a “temporary housing complex” aimed at housing up to 5,600 workers in the state capital, Cheyenne. This plan has drawn sharp reactions from the community, as many fear it resembles past “labor camps” established during previous labor booms.
Interestingly, this new complex would be more populous than most of Wyoming’s incorporated cities, according to state statistics. Residents recall the impact of previous projects and are concerned about the potential disruptions to their way of life.
One resident shared her thoughts on a local Facebook page, expressing concern about workers disconnected from the community. “These are men who may not even have ties here,” she said, reflecting broader anxieties about transient populations.
Wyoming’s low taxes and vast energy resources have made it appealing to tech firms eager to set up data centers. Currently, ten of these centers are operational, five are under construction, and nine more have been announced, according to local economic development authority Betsy Hale.
Stan Higgins, a 72-year-old former civil servant, has observed significant changes in his neighborhood. The idyllic setting he once enjoyed has transformed into a bustling construction zone. “It’s heartbreaking,” he remarked about the ongoing noise and hustle.
On top of that, expansion plans for Microsoft nearby and the initiation of Project Jade, which could become one of the largest data centers in the country, have added to local unease.
One community member voiced fears that the state’s charm is fading, suggesting that if Wyoming continues on this path, it might lose its unique identity. Conversely, another resident argued that the influx of workers could be a boon for the local economy, potentially bringing in much-needed revenue.
Iron Guard Housing has defended its proposal, describing the modular units as comfortable living quarters that would provide necessary amenities and even recreational facilities like a pickleball court. At a recent rally, many local residents gathered at the historic courthouse to voice their opposition to the project.
Some local leaders, like Republican state Rep. Clarence Stiver, expressed concerns based on past experiences with labor issues in the region. Meanwhile, Justin Arnold, who oversees the county’s development agency, suggested that the housing could mitigate the competition for local rentals, making it safer for existing residents.
The planning committee initially approved the men’s camp but then decided to reconsider its location after further discussions with local officials.
As similar conflicts arise across the nation, many Americans are rallying against proposed data centers, citing fears of environmental harm, increased utility costs, and disruptions caused by noise and light pollution.
In Georgia, residents of Fayetteville were outraged when a new center consumed millions of gallons of water without prior payment, causing water pressure issues during a drought. Additionally, tensions persist in Coweta County over plans for a large data center called “Project Sail.”
In another instance, a small town in Missouri displaced several lawmakers who supported a massive data center proposal, while in Utah, a heated community meeting erupted in protest against a new development pushed by a celebrity entrepreneur.
