Alliance hosts briefing on data centers

The Southern Virginia Regional Alliance (SVRA) recently hosted a briefing on May 6 to delve into the increasing presence of data center campuses across southern Virginia. Attended by over 150 community leaders, the event aimed to provide a balanced understanding of data center development, covering aspects like site selection, construction considerations, and the associated regional opportunities and challenges. The program featured Vince Barnett of the Virginia Economic Development Partnership (VEDP), who spoke on the broader data center landscape in the Commonwealth. Elizabeth Rafferty, Director of Government Affairs at Hunton Andrews Kurth, LLP, delivered a keynote address on the Data Center Coalition and its impact on Virginia. Expert panel discussions also explored the benefits and obstacles, as well as site development and infrastructure requirements for data centers, fostering dialogue among attendees. Gretchen Clark of sponsor Hurt & Profitt commented on the strong turnout, emphasizing the commitment of local leaders to grasp the future of advanced manufacturing and technology in the region. The SVRA, a regional economic development body, is dedicated to fostering a robust economy, enhancing the tax base, and maintaining a high quality of life for its citizens by collaborating and sharing opportunities.