Protesters rally in Botetourt County over concerns about Google's proposed data center
Residents in Botetourt County, Virginia, rallied against Google's proposed data center, primarily voicing concerns over its potential water usage. Protesters demanded greater transparency from county leaders and the Western Virginia Water Authority, and called for an independent review of the project's water needs. The issue is expected to be discussed at an upcoming Board of Supervisors meeting.
Protesters gathered along U.S. 220 in Botetourt County, Virginia, on Saturday, demonstrating against Google's proposed data center project. The local demonstration was part of a nationwide day of action organized by Humans First, a conservative group advocating for stronger community voices in AI development decisions.
The primary concern for Botetourt County residents was the data center's water consumption. Protesters expressed distrust in information provided by county leaders and the Western Virginia Water Authority regarding the project's water needs, alleging inconsistent messaging and a lack of clear answers to direct questions.
Demonstrators called for Google to cancel the project or, at minimum, provide more transparency and actual contracts related to the project's water usage. Many also advocated for an independent, third-party review of the data center's projected water use, believing local leaders may prioritize financial interests over residents' concerns.
The issue is anticipated to be raised again at the Botetourt County Board of Supervisors meeting on July 28, where protesters expect the Planning Commission to request an independent study into the data center's water demands. The proposed Google data center has generated increasing attention in recent months due to debates over its economic benefits versus its impact on local infrastructure and natural resources.