MIDDLESEX TWP — The township’s planning commission is working to update its zoning ordinance to address data center developments.

While no decisions were made at the board of supervisors work session held Wednesday, planning commission member Alex Wing told the board it is urgent for the township to update its zoning ordinance as soon as possible.

“First of all, we have to define (data centers) because they don't exist in the ordinance, so where they’re allowed is disputable,” Wing said. “I think the sense of the planning commission is that we need to address data centers explicitly.”

As of 2026, Middlesex Township’s zoning map contains 10 sections: three for agriculture, two for residential, three for commercial, as well as town center and restricted industrial zones. There is also a Route 228 Corridor Commercial Mixed Use Overlay District to allow for commercial and office development in mostly-residential areas along Route 228.

While the zoning ordinance reserves specific uses for specific districts, data centers are currently not mentioned.

“We need to come up with a strategy to make sure that data centers and other similar uses are addressed in the zoning ordinance,” Wing said.