Northern Virginia may be the data center capital of the world, but Southside Virginia is the next frontier. With projects already underway in Lynchburg, Mecklenburg and Pittsylvania County, these massive facilities promise economic growth — but not without challenges. From job creation and tax revenue to power demands and environmental concerns, Cardinal News is breaking down what this expansion means for the region. With insights from experts, officials and communities, our in-depth series explores the opportunities, trade-offs and lessons Southside can learn from Northern Virginia’s decades of experience.
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Have questions about Google’s data center project in Botetourt County? We have some answers.
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Google says it will break ground on Botetourt data center campus in coming months
The tech giant bought more than 300 acres at the county’s Greenfield industrial park for $14 million last June.
New governor could see new versions of old bills seeking to regulate the data center industry
State legislators have presented nearly 30 bills related to data center regulation. Gov. Abigail Spanberger has already expressed the need to make sure that the facilities’ energy costs aren’t passed on to other customers.
Data center campus announced for Wythe County
Some details have yet to be finalized, but the project will be developed in the county’s Progress Park. Officials say it will bring high-tech, high-wage jobs to the region.
Google buys Botetourt County land for data center plans
The tech giant paid $14 million for 312 acres in a county industrial park and will contribute another $4 million toward community projects. It did not provide a timeline for the project or say how large the data center would be.
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