ASHVILLE, OH – In a landmark decision Monday night, the Teays Valley School District Board of Education voted unanimously to support a development term sheet with EdgeConneX, signaling a major step forward for a project that promises to reshape the region’s infrastructure and economy.
The agreement serves as a blueprint for a massive project that would see the data center giant contribute roughly $102 million in local investments, including a staggering $70 million directly to Teays Valley Schools.
Infrastructure at No Cost to Taxpayers
Beyond the direct funding for education, the proposal includes a promise from EdgeConneX to fund approximately $32 million in water and wastewater infrastructure improvements. Local officials have noted that these upgrades are critical for the village’s growth but were previously considered unaffordable through traditional municipal budgets.
Supporters of the project argue that the long-term economic benefits will extend far beyond the initial investment, providing a steady stream of revenue for township services and municipal budgets for years to come.
The Road to the OPSB
While the school board’s support is a significant milestone, the project’s fate now rests with the Ohio Power Siting Board (OPSB). As the state authority over large energy-related developments, the OPSB has the final word on whether the project moves forward. EdgeConneX is expected to file its formal application this month, with a final decision likely by October 2026.
Community Concerns and Environmental Impact
Despite the unanimous board support, the project has faced a wave of public scrutiny. Local residents have submitted numerous public comment letters to the OPSB, raising concerns about the industrial nature of the site. Key issues include:
- The 70-plus gas turbines required to power the facility.
- Noise pollution from cooling systems and turbines.
- Light and air emissions affecting the rural character of the area.
While the OPSB is required to consider “public interest, convenience, and necessity,” it is not legally bound to follow local opposition. Historically, the board has approved similar projects, such as the 2026 Apollo Power plant in Wood County, by attaching strict conditions to address community concerns.
Project Timeline and Precedents
The Ashville development comes at a time of heightened tension regarding data centers in Ohio. While recent cases like Birch Solar in Allen County saw the Ohio Supreme Court step in after local pushback, the EdgeConneX project remains in the “Pending” phase.
Upcoming Milestones:
- Application Submission: Expected April 2026
- Public Hearings: April 29th 5 to 7 pm at Teays Valley High school
- Final Decision: Projected October 2026
If approved, the project would represent one of the largest single private investments in the history of Pickaway County.
