(Cedar Rapids) Linn County Board of Supervisors Chair Kirsten Running-Marquardt is raising concerns about a proposed natural gas power plant west of Cedar Rapids.
Alliant Energy’s Morgan Valley Energy Center would generate 720 megawatts to meet the growing power demand to operate newly constructed data centers nearby. Residents and leaders have formed opposition groups like Save Morgan Valley to prevent construction due to fears of decreased air quality, property values, and overall quality of life.
Running-Marquardt says economic growth can still move forward, but she wants more transparency, public input, and pollution safeguards for nearby communities. She also said that future projects should consider how their construction would impact those living around them.
