Data Center Campus
QTS is excited to establish a new data center campus in Pennsylvania. We are committed to being a responsible and engaged neighbor, bringing economic growth, environmental stewardship and a focus on community prosperity to the state.
A data center is a purpose-built building that stores a large amount of digital data. This data – and the applications used to create, process and share it – is housed in servers that reside within the data center. Data centers are vital hubs for businesses, governments and organizations that rely on technology.
There are many factors that QTS considers when looking at locations for data center development. Data centers require access to power, connectivity and a skilled workforce that not everywhere can provide. Another important factor is existing infrastructure and appropriate zoning that can support data center development, both of which this area already has established. Having zoning and infrastructure already in place significantly minimizes environmental and community disruption which is why we considered this site.
QTS Data Centers is investing in the future of Salem Township with a proposed data center campus. We expect to build 12 data center buildings across approximately 1,700 acres over a phased development plan.
We take pride in constructing buildings with aesthetic appeal in the communities where we operate. We have a track record of working with local communities to ensure our buildings meet local design standards.
Although we are still in the early planning stages, we plan to minimize visual impacts on neighboring properties through substantial buffers and setbacks. We will incorporate buffer screens to conceal equipment from view and utilize landscaping techniques such as berms to enhance aesthetics.
This project represents a $10 billion QTS investment that will have a transformative impact on Salem Township, supporting its growth and development.
It is expected to create hundreds of construction and full-time positions, supporting local families and businesses and partnering with local building trades unions.
We estimate the project will generate millions in local tax revenue annually once the project is fully built out and operational, creating an opportunity to reduce tax burden for residents and support services and community programs throughout Salem Township.
This investment reflects our belief that responsible growth means shared prosperity for the communities where we live, operate and raise our families.
We estimate hundreds of construction jobs and nearly 100 permanent jobs will be created during the development and operation of this data center campus.
The permanent, onsite jobs reflect a combination of positions directly employed by QTS, jobs employed by our tenants, and jobs tied to campus operations such as maintenance. These numbers are projections based on similar projects.
Beyond construction, data centers employ a wide range of onsite jobs across operations, project management, procurement, logistics, security and maintenance/technology.
Skillsets range from technical (electrical, mechanical, IT certifications) to administrative and security. Importantly, our Data Center Academy program provides paid training for individuals with no prior experience, creating a pathway to become a Critical Operations Technician.
We typically pay an average of $80,000 for an annual salary for a Data Center Technician.
We do not have a specific percentage goal; however, we will prioritize local hiring wherever possible. Through partnerships with local schools, technical colleges, and workforce programs, we aim for a significant portion of roles to be filled by residents.
Research shows that data centers can support long-term residential property values by strengthening local tax bases and improving school quality. Data centers contribute millions of dollars each year in local property tax revenue while placing no additional demand on public schools. This creates what researchers call a “School Premium” effect—a fiscal surplus that allows communities to invest more in schools without raising residential taxes.
Because school district quality is the single strongest driver of home values in the U.S., these investments matter. Additional funding can support school facility upgrades, higher teacher pay, stronger academic programs, and improved school ratings—all of which make neighborhoods more desirable places to live.
In many communities, data center tax revenue has also helped stabilize or reduce residential tax rates, further supporting homeowner affordability and long-term value. By acting as a fiscal anchor for communities and helping fund high-performing schools, data centers help create the economic conditions that support stable and appreciating residential property values over time.
This project represents a $10 billion QTS investment that will have a transformative impact on Salem Township, supporting its growth and development.
It is expected to create hundreds of construction and full-time positions, supporting local families and businesses and partnering with local building trades unions.
We estimate the project will generate millions in local tax revenue annually once the project is fully built out and operational, creating an opportunity to reduce tax burden for residents and support services and community programs throughout Salem Township.
This investment reflects our belief that responsible growth means shared prosperity for the communities where we live, operate and raise our families.
We estimate hundreds of construction jobs and nearly 100 permanent jobs will be created during the development and operation of this data center campus.
The permanent, onsite jobs reflect a combination of positions directly employed by QTS, jobs employed by our tenants, and jobs tied to campus operations such as maintenance. These numbers are projections based on similar projects.
Beyond construction, data centers employ a wide range of onsite jobs across operations, project management, procurement, logistics, security and maintenance/technology.
Skillsets range from technical (electrical, mechanical, IT certifications) to administrative and security. Importantly, our Data Center Academy program provides paid training for individuals with no prior experience, creating a pathway to become a Critical Operations Technician.
We typically pay an average of $80,000 for an annual salary for a Data Center Technician.
We do not have a specific percentage goal; however, we will prioritize local hiring wherever possible. Through partnerships with local schools, technical colleges, and workforce programs, we aim for a significant portion of roles to be filled by residents.
Research shows that data centers can support long-term residential property values by strengthening local tax bases and improving school quality. Data centers contribute millions of dollars each year in local property tax revenue while placing no additional demand on public schools. This creates what researchers call a “School Premium” effect—a fiscal surplus that allows communities to invest more in schools without raising residential taxes.
Because school district quality is the single strongest driver of home values in the U.S., these investments matter. Additional funding can support school facility upgrades, higher teacher pay, stronger academic programs, and improved school ratings—all of which make neighborhoods more desirable places to live.
In many communities, data center tax revenue has also helped stabilize or reduce residential tax rates, further supporting homeowner affordability and long-term value. By acting as a fiscal anchor for communities and helping fund high-performing schools, data centers help create the economic conditions that support stable and appreciating residential property values over time.
QTS data centers are built with a closed-loop cooling system that does not consume water for cooling, once operational. Because our cooling technology uses a closed-loop, there will be no impact to water supply in Salem Township or the Susquehanna River.
Once the cooling system is up and running, PA American Water will only be used for everyday building needs – like bathrooms, kitchens, cleaning and landscaping – just like any other commercial building. For a typical building, we use less than average water use by industrial standards, using about 50,000 gallons a month for bathrooms, kitchens, irrigation and humidification. This is about what 4 households use a month.
The closed-loop system that cools the data hall uses only water. We will need to initially charge the system with a one-time fill. The total initial charging volume can vary widely based on a variety of factors including power capacity and facility design. Since we’re still early in the planning stage for this development, it’s hard to predict the exact amount of water needed.
We’re currently in discussions with PA American Water to identify the best solutions to support the initial fill.
Protecting wetlands and wildlife is a key part of our planning. Environmental studies have been completed, and we are working with the appropriate state agencies through the required permitting process. Our site design incorporates regulated buffers and erosion and sediment controls to protect wetlands and nearby waterways during construction. If impacts cannot be avoided, they will be addressed through the state-approved mitigation process. As designs are finalized and permits are issued, we will share additional details.
Diesel generators are used for emergency backup purposes only and are not the main source of power for our data centers. Generators are tested once a month for a short period of time for routine maintenance. Our diesel storage tanks are double-walled and equipped with interstitial leak monitoring and containment systems to minimize noise and ensure environmental protection. Additionally, our generators come equipped with high-efficiency filters to protect air quality and reduce emissions. These filters help minimize air pollutants and noise levels to keep the community safe in the limited cases that backup generators are needed.
QTS will apply for an air permit to the Department of Natural Resources (DNR). The DNR is the delegated permitting and enforcement arm, from the US EPA under the Clean Air Act, to ensure that air pollution is within acceptable levels.
Any equipment that QTS or our customers use, we recycle. In most cases, old electronics are typically used to build new component parts.
A common misconception is that living near a data center poses increased health risks due to radiation. All buildings regardless of usage and occupancy emit electromagnetic radiation. In fact, data centers emit levels of electromagnetic radiation comparable to those of standard commercial or residential buildings. Extensive research has been conducted, and no evidence has been found to conclude that exposure to low-level electromagnetic fields is harmful to health.
QTS has completed an acoustic analysis to ensure we comply with the proposed decibel thresholds and all local, state and federal noise emission regulations.
Our data centers are designed not to exceed permissible noise levels, and we implement a variety of sound mitigation strategies, including equipment enclosures, sound barriers and strategic grading and site layouts fit for each development
QTS data center buildings are constructed to meet or exceed green building standards, which includes responsible lighting design. The lighting strategy will mitigate impact to wildlife and natural areas by implementing special lighting techniques. These include using directional lighting pointed downward and covered to reduce light pollution, lower wattage and brightness levels, motion sensors and automatic systems to avoid unnecessary lighting and landscaping to minimize light impact. All lighting plans will meet local and state code requirements.
While data centers are critical infrastructure, they are among the most secure and reliable facilities in technology.
QTS data centers are designed with multiple layers of physical, technical and environmental security controls including biometric access controls, 24/7 surveillance and advanced cybersecurity protocols.
QTS data centers use high-security fencing, often 8 to 12 feet tall. This fencing is made of steel and sometimes topped with barbed wire for added protection.
Yes. Entry points are limited and secured with gates controlled by badge access, biometric systems and security personnel.
The Salem Township Police Department and the Berwick Fire Department will be the primary responders for emergencies at the proposed facility. If the project moves forward, we will partner with the department to ensure they have the training, equipment and resources needed to respond effectively to an emergency and protect the community.
Data centers are built for long-term use and are designed to evolve with technology. While the physical structure remains durable and well-maintained, the internal systems (servers, cooling, electrical) are upgraded to keep pace with innovation and efficiency standards.
The QTS approach is modular and scalable, meaning we can integrate new technologies without major reconstruction. This ensures the facility stays operational for decades.
QTS is connecting with Salem Township residents through a series of community meetings and events in 2026. These efforts are designed to keep everyone informed, answer questions, and encourage local involvement in the project.
Highlights include upcoming public events, chances to meet with QTS representatives, and ongoing open communication with city and school leaders. QTS is committed to transparency and ensuring the community has the information needed as the project moves forward.
We will continue to work closely with Salem Township and state agencies as the project moves through the review and permitting process, including environmental, economic and infrastructure assessments.
We will share updates and maintain open communication with local leaders, residents and community partners as the project advances.
For additional updates, resources and information about the of the proposed QTS Data Centers project, please visit https://qtsdatacenters.com/data-centers/qts-pennsylvania/.
We understand that projects of this scale raise important questions and concerns, and we take them seriously. We’re committed to providing clear, timely updates through our FAQ page and ongoing communications.
Residents can reach us anytime via [email protected], our website comment form, or at upcoming community events.
WHY QTS
Our role as the digital infrastructure leader goes far beyond building and operating the world’s most advanced data centers. It means staying true to our core values and uplifting the communities in which we live, work and operate.
We estimate hundreds of construction jobs and nearly 100 permanent jobs will be created during the development and operation of this data center campus.
We’ve established clear goals for reducing our carbon footprint, using a closed-loop cooling system, promoting clean energy and improving stakeholder well-being.
We are dedicated to enhancing the future prosperity, the environment and business landscape by supporting local organizations to meet the unique needs of the communities in Pennsylvania.
As a conscientious, purpose-driven organization, we listen and engage the community with our best-in-class standards for site development, construction and operations.
Our company and employees donate time, technology and resources to support local programs and agencies. We are committed to improving communities and changing lives.
QTS is powered by people who are here for you.
Stay tuned for updates on development.
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