Prince George’s County: Data Center Controversy And Community Opposition

UPPER MARLBORO, Md. — Prince George’s County leaders are facing growing scrutiny over a proposal to build a hyperscale data center at the former Landover Mall site, a project that has prompted protests, petitions and, in some cases, led local lawmakers to reconsider their positions. The debate has raised broader questions about economic development priorities, environmental impacts and residents’ influence over major land-use decisions.

The proposed data center—designed to house thousands of servers that support cloud computing and digital infrastructure—would occupy a large portion of the long-vacant mall property near the Washington, D.C., border. Supporters say redeveloping the site could generate significant tax revenue and help position Prince George’s County as a regional technology hub. Critics, however, argue the project would provide limited local benefits while imposing environmental and quality-of-life costs.

Residents from nearby neighborhoods have organized rallies and community meetings, raising concerns about potential increases in energy consumption, water use, noise and traffic. Some residents say the proposal came as a surprise and that community engagement occurred late in the process.

Environmental advocates have also raised concerns, citing the substantial electricity and water demands commonly associated with hyperscale data centers. While such facilities have become increasingly common across the region, opponents argue that placing one in a densely populated area raises questions about sustainability and environmental justice.

Initially, several county and state officials expressed support for the project, citing the need to attract large-scale investment and compete with neighboring jurisdictions such as Northern Virginia, which has become a global data center hub. As public opposition grew, some lawmakers later said they were reevaluating their support.

In recent weeks, local elected officials who previously backed the proposal have acknowledged constituent concerns and called for a pause or further review of the plan. Others have urged county agencies and developers to provide more detailed information about environmental safeguards, potential community benefits and alternative uses for the site.

The controversy has also highlighted tensions within Prince George’s County over redevelopment of long-neglected commercial properties. The Landover Mall site has been the subject of redevelopment discussions for years, with past proposals including mixed-use projects featuring housing, retail, and entertainment. Some residents say the data center proposal differs from those earlier concepts.

County officials say no final decision has been made and emphasize that public input remains part of the process. Community leaders, however, argue the situation highlights the need for more transparent planning and earlier engagement. Petitions opposing the data center have gathered thousands of signatures, and organizers say they plan to continue advocating for alternatives they believe better align with local needs.

As Prince George’s County considers how to redevelop one of its most prominent vacant sites, the outcome of the Landover Mall data center debate could influence future development decisions, shaping how the county balances economic opportunity, environmental considerations and community input.

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