Stafford County supervisors approve Accokeek Center data center campus despite opposition
The Stafford County Board of Supervisors voted 4-3 to approve the Accokeek Center data center campus in the Falmouth District. More than 30 residents raised concerns about setbacks, environmental impacts, potential effects on wells and compliance with the county’s Comprehensive Plan, but the project was approved with mitigation provisions.
The Stafford County Board of Supervisors approved the Accokeek Center data center campus by a 4-3 vote following a public hearing that lasted into early Thursday morning. The project would develop approximately 590,000 square feet of data center and accessory uses on 121 acres between Interstate 95 and U.S. 1 in the Falmouth District.
The campus does not fully meet the county’s new 750-foot setback requirement from homes, but Chairman Deuntay Diggs said county stipulations allow reduced setbacks when developers mitigate impacts. Supervisors Crystal Vanuch, Darrell English and Pamela Yeung opposed approval, while supporters cited projected tax revenue and construction jobs. More than 30 speakers, most opposing the project, cited environmental concerns, possible harm to residential wells and inconsistencies with the county’s Comprehensive Plan.