Eminent domain considered for new Stafford water system
Stafford County, Virginia is facing challenges acquiring right-of-way for reclaimed water pipeline infrastructure needed to cool two approved data center projects. The county is now considering using eminent domain, including "quick-take powers," to obtain the necessary land.
Stafford County, Virginia, is encountering difficulties in securing the necessary right-of-way across approximately two dozen properties to construct a reclaimed water pipeline. This infrastructure is crucial for providing cooling water to two data center projects that have already received approval within the county.
To overcome these acquisition challenges, Stafford County officials are evaluating the use of condemnation proceedings and "quick-take powers." These legal mechanisms would allow the county to acquire the land for the water line, specifically in the Aquia and Falmouth districts, which include the Somerset neighborhood, to support the ongoing data center developments.