County engages Lumen for dark fiber while pursuing data center park expansion

A major development in Beaver County's tech landscape was unveiled during the February 18, 2025, City Council meeting, as officials discussed the potential arrival of dark fiber infrastructure crucial for data centers. The conversation highlighted ongoing negotiations with Lumen Technologies, which operates fiber lines adjacent to the Union Pacific Railway. This dark fiber is seen as a game-changer for the region, promising to enhance connectivity and attract tech businesses.

Bob, a key figure in the discussions, expressed excitement about the project, stating, "This is more than just an idea." He revealed that the county is in the process of selling land for a data center park, with plans to acquire up to 1,000 acres. Currently, negotiations are focused on purchasing 320 to 340 acres from the county.

However, the project faces challenges, particularly regarding power transmission. Officials acknowledged that existing infrastructure limits capacity, but they are optimistic about legislative efforts aimed at easing these restrictions. Two competing bills in the state legislature could pave the way for large-scale energy purchasers to establish their own micro-transmission lines, which would be vital for the data center's operations.

The discussions also touched on the potential for nuclear energy to play a role in the project, though officials clarified that the current focus is on various energy generation methods. The hope is that these legislative changes will facilitate the necessary infrastructure to support the burgeoning tech sector in Beaver County.

As the council moves forward, the anticipated economic impact is significant, with projections suggesting that data centers could contribute millions in property taxes annually, bolstering local funding for schools and infrastructure. The community is poised for a technological transformation, with leaders expressing confidence in the project's future.