Data center concerns continue in Amherst County despite no active project
Residents in Amherst County continue to oppose the possibility of future data center development, citing potential noise, water use and environmental impacts, although no active project or complete application is under review. The Board of Supervisors voted in August to require special use permits, including noise studies, concept plans and setback reviews, for any future data centers.
Residents in Amherst County, Virginia, remain concerned about potential data center development despite the absence of an active project or completed application. Residents Kevin Wittman, Teresa Almond and Sky Pacot raised concerns about noise, water consumption and possible effects on ecosystems and the James River.
The Amherst County Board of Supervisors voted in August to require special use permits for future data centers, giving the county additional review authority and residents an opportunity to comment. Community Development Director Tyler Creasy said applicants would need to submit a noise study and concept plan showing compliance with setback and other ordinance requirements. Supervisor Chris Adams, one of two members to oppose the ordinance, said data centers could comply with existing zoning rules and provide economic benefits, while acknowledging the need to protect county resources and residents.