Data center vote draws passionate debate in Prince William County
The Prince William County Board of Supervisors is holding a major vote on an amendment to its comprehensive plan, which would allow for the development of the Dulles South Innovation Center data center project. The vote has drawn passionate debate, with over 100 residents speaking both for and against the project, some even rallying outside the meeting. The board denied a developer's request to defer the vote and intended to proceed with the decision.
The Prince William County Board of Supervisors is holding a critical vote on a proposed data center development, reigniting the debate over such projects in Northern Virginia. More than 100 residents participated in public comment, with both supporters and opponents addressing the board.
Neighbors rallied outside the meeting, urging the board to reject an amendment to the comprehensive plan. This amendment would change the long-range land use designation for approximately 1940 acres along Sanders Lane in the Gainesville District, near the Loudoun County border, from agriculture and forestry to industrial and mixed-use development, specifically for the "Dulles South Innovation Center" data center project.
Homeowners along Sanders Lane who support the data center project argued that their land is already being impacted by development, and data centers represent the most lucrative use given their proximity to Dulles, which handles a significant portion of global internet traffic. Opponents, however, expressed concerns about quality of life and property protection.
The developer sought to defer the vote, but the Board denied this request, indicating a strong desire within the Board to make a decision on the amendment during the meeting.