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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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.
Youngkin vetoes bill to require site assessments for data centers
The bill would have mandated examining sound volume within 500 feet of schools and residences, along with measuring potential effects on ground and surface water, agriculture resources, parks, registered historic sites and forest land on or around proposed facilities.
Pittsylvania rejects data center project that has dominated county conversation for 6 months
The board also denied Balico’s last-minute request to withdraw its rezoning application without penalty, which would have let the company resubmit another plan at any time.
Company official says Microporous on schedule in Pittsylvania after questions about federal funding
A January executive order froze federal funds to some energy-related projects, but Microporous still expects to receive $100 million in federal funding.
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