South Korean memory chip manufacturer SK hynix will be hosting a public information session at 6:30 p.m. Friday at the Convergence Center to discuss its plans to build a $3.9 billion semiconductor and research facility in Purdue Research Park.
The CEO of SK hynix, Kwak Noh-Jung, spoke at a Purdue press conference a year ago after the company announced their $3.87 billion West Lafayette facility.
The information session follows the Tippecanoe County Area Planning Commission vote on March 19 to recommend the denial of the facility’s proposed rezoning in light of backlash from West Lafayette residents. A vote on an ordinance to rezone 121 acres of residential land for SK hynix’s industrial use is set for the city council’s May 5 meeting.
Residents of Purdue Research Park voiced their concerns on the project at the APC meeting, citing concerns about the environmental impact and health hazards brought from the construction of the facility, as well as the chip-making process itself.
The information session will address these issues, providing details about the facility’s environmental considerations, safety protocols and building plans.
Representatives from SK hynix will be available to answer any questions about the project during the session.
SK hynix previously stated its commitment to addressing the concerns of the community in a pre-council meeting April 3.
“As we engage with the public, our education efforts will focus on clarifying our safety, health and environmental processes,” said N.K. Kim, the vice president and the head of the Neuron Project Management Office at SK hynix in West Lafayette. “We will also provide more background on SK hynix, who we are, our positive track record and the beneficial economic impact of the project.”
Friday’s session will be the first in a series of public meetings over the next few weeks. Specific details about the session and subsequent meetings are still being finalized.
