LOWELL — The development of the Markley data center in Lowell’s Sacred Heart neighborhood has raised significant concerns among residents regarding the addition of diesel emergency generators.
Markley, which claims to be New England’s largest and longest-operating telecommunications and data center developer, plans to install 27 diesel generators at its facility.
The company also intends to add 16 cooling towers and a water treatment plant to support its expansion in the fields of artificial intelligence and data storage.
During a City Council meeting on April 8, Councilor Kim Scott expressed her apprehension about the environmental implications of adding more diesel tanks to the Markley project.
She pointed out that the addition contradicts Lowell’s sustainability goals outlined in the Lowell Forward initiative, which aims for carbon neutrality by 2050.
Markley’s Lowell facility, located at 2 Prince Ave. and 1 Markley Way on the site of the former Prince pasta plant, relies on diesel fuel, unlike its Boston counterpart that operates using natural gas.
This requires a rigorous application and approval process from the Massachusetts Department of Environmental Protection (MassDEP).
The zoning of the Markley property is classified as light industrial, surrounded by various businesses like moving companies and metal fabricators, while also being close to residential neighborhoods.
Recently, residents received public notices from MassDEP concerning Markley’s application to install and operate additional emergency engines at the data center.
According to a draft document from MassDEP, the application met all requirements for compliance with air pollution regulations.
The public comment period regarding this application will remain open until June 16, allowing residents to voice their opinions on the matter.
In its application, Markley explained that the power requirements of its clients necessitate the use of battery-backed uninterruptable power systems.
These systems entail support from emergency generators during power outages, leading to the proposed installation of 27 diesel generators at the Lowell facility.
In conjunction with this, Markley has plans to install a total of 16 cooling towers on the east side of the site to enhance its electrical infrastructure.
A visit to the site on Friday revealed ongoing construction activities, with workers busy installing additional piping, showcasing rapid progress on the project over the past nine months.
A large mound of dirt by the construction site has raised safety concerns among nearby residents, particularly regarding the stability of the surrounding fence.
One resident, who wished to remain anonymous, highlighted the risks posed by falling debris, including rocks and construction material that have spilled over the fence.
At a recent Planning Board meeting, members acknowledged the concerns raised by residents and city agencies regarding air and noise quality, environmental impact, and whether the project aligns with sustainability objectives.
Vice Chair Gerard Frechette’s motion recognized the need to address these issues, ensuring that Markley works with site professionals for safe soil excavation and effective dust-control measures during construction.
The Planning Board had previously approved an earlier site plan for Markley with conditions aimed at addressing these community concerns.
Orange tarps, stacked neatly at one corner of the property near the Andrews Street entrance, hint at ongoing preparations for the site.
Markley is set to hold a neighborhood meeting on Monday, June 2, from 6 to 7:30 p.m. at the Joseph G. Pyne Arts Elementary School, located at 145 Boylston St.
This meeting aims to provide the community with information regarding the application for the new generators and will include a question-and-answer session to facilitate dialogue with local residents.
As construction progresses, the intersection of industrial growth and community concerns remains a key topic in Lowell, particularly in the context of environmental sustainability and local governance.
image source from：https://www.lowellsun.com/2025/06/01/public-input-to-markley-data-center-expansion/
