Prince William County leaders reject plans for 2,000-acre data center
Prince William County leaders rejected a proposal for the 2,000-acre Dulles Cloud South data center project after extensive public comment. Residents voiced concerns about the energy burden on the community and inadequate economic benefits. This decision follows a previous legal setback for the related Digital Gateway Data Center proposal in the same county.
Prince William County leaders have rejected plans for the massive Dulles Cloud South data center project, which proposed to cover nearly 2,000 acres in the western part of the county. The decision by the Prince William County Board of Supervisors came after hours of public comment from over 100 passionate speakers, with residents on both sides of the issue sounding off.
Supporters highlighted the potential for substantial tax revenue and new employment opportunities for the county. However, many residents expressed concerns about the industrial burden, claiming the county would serve as an "extension cord" for power demands further north without receiving adequate economic benefit. Rising energy costs and the need for new transmission lines cutting through neighborhoods were also key points of contention for opponents.
The discussion occurred shortly after plans for the smaller Digital Gateway Data Center proposal fell apart. A judge had struck down its rezoning plans, leading developers to drop their appeal. Board Chair DeShawn Jefferson indicated that the county needs to consider land use holistically.