Google makes Botetourt data center plan official, promises 'water stewardship'

Google has officially confirmed its intentions to construct a data center campus in Botetourt County, Virginia, a disclosure made on Thursday after a two-year period of collaborative efforts with local government bodies. This announcement follows several months of public feedback and apprehension from area residents regarding the project's potential impacts on local resources. Google has acquired a 312-acre parcel within the Botetourt Center at Greenfield industrial complex for the development. In response to community concerns, the technology giant has committed to practicing "water stewardship" and ensuring responsible usage of both water and power resources for the facility. Local opposition to the proposed data center has been visible, with residents voicing their concerns at various public forums, including a meeting of the Western Virginia Water Authority board in Roanoke on January 15. A protest also took place outside the county administration building in March, highlighting ongoing community apprehension.