The state government and Rivian secretly negotiated the future factory’s details, such as zoning, for months and longtime residents were left completely in the dark. They want answers as to how the sprawling new facility will affect their lives.
“I think the size of this Rivian plant really scares a lot of people,” said Clint Powell, an electrical contractor who has lived in the area for 17 years. The factory is set to be located on a 2,000-acre site and is expected to break ground in the coming months.
This all sounds good on paper but vital questions still remained unanswered despite Rivian’s promise to provide them. For example, residents want to know how much extra traffic can be expected. How close will the plant get to private property lines? How bright will the facility’s lights be?
