ASHVILLE, Ohio — A global data-center developer is eyeing 680 acres of farmland on Ashville’s northern edge for a massive new facility — a project that has quickly become one of the most divisive issues the village has faced in years.
EdgeConneX, a worldwide data-infrastructure company, is proposing to build north of State Route 752 toward Weigand Road. The plan has drawn sharp criticism from some residents, who attended an informational meeting this week wearing red to show their opposition.
Village Administrator Bert Cline told Sciotopost he supports the project, noting the potential financial impact on the community. According to Cline, EdgeConneX has agreed to fund a $35 million infrastructure overhaul to repair storm and sanitary sewer cross-connections — a project the EPA has mandated the village complete.
“This could take the burden of the village vs the village taxpayers paying for these things,” Cline said.
Beyond infrastructure, the company has proposed contributing $105 million to local schools over the next 15 years, in addition to helping fund emergency services and other community needs.Even with his support, Cline said he is still doing his homework on environmental and health considerations. He also plans to tour other EdgeConneX facilities before giving final approval.
Before the project can move forward, the property must be annexed — a process that could create tension between Ashville and Harrison Township.
Many residents at the meeting voiced frustration with the town hall’s structure, saying the format limited their ability to ask questions directly. Several attendees expressed concerns about environmental impacts, farmland loss, increased industrial footprint, and transparency in the planning process.
A number of residents spoke out following the meeting, including one who shared their concerns on video with Sciotopost below
