A.I. Data Center Pollution Poses Health Threat, Former E.P.A. Officials Warn

Irvington Community Elementary School, a charter school in Indianapolis, is at the center of a data center dispute that could affect both student health and enrollment. Nearby, DC Blox, a digital infrastructure company, plans to construct a $2 billion data center, sparking concerns from the tight-knit community. Residents worry about noise from the 31 generators and potential contaminants from the former Ford Motor Company manufacturing plant, where hazardous substances may still linger in the soil and groundwater.

The proposed facility sits about 850 feet from the school, raising fears that soil contaminants could infiltrate the school's ventilation system, especially given the presence of students with health conditions such as asthma. School leaders, including Principal Katie Welch, are concerned about potential impacts on student health and a conducive learning environment.

The school is among several plaintiffs in a lawsuit challenging the data center's approval. DC Blox has committed to testing for contaminants and implementing measures to mitigate any risks, including a vapor mitigation system and a two-foot soil barrier. Additionally, the data center must maintain sound levels below 65 decibels, comparable to a normal conversation or a business office.

However, the school faces an additional challenge due to declining enrollment, which led to a $2.85 million deficit last year. The network, consisting of three schools, is seeking alternative funding sources and cutting programs, but the looming data center could further deter enrollment.