West Virginia pushes for data center growth
West Virginia is actively promoting itself as a hub for data centers, highlighted by a $4 billion project announced in Berkeley County. Governor Patrick Morrissey emphasized the state's commitment to proper planning, addressing concerns like water access, setbacks, trees, and noise. He also clarified that Berkeley County will receive 30% of the tax revenue generated by the project.
West Virginia is actively positioning itself as a burgeoning hub for data centers, a strategic move highlighted by Governor Patrick Morrissey. This initiative follows an announcement in February regarding a significant data center development in Berkeley County, which involves a $4 billion investment from a Reston-based real estate firm. Governor Morrissey stated that West Virginia's appeal to developers, over traditional data center hubs like Virginia, lies in its commitment to "doing things the right way."
The Governor detailed that the state is ensuring new facilities have excellent water access and adhere to proper regulations concerning setbacks, tree preservation, and noise mitigation. He suggested that a lack of proper planning in these areas has caused issues and "angered a lot of people in Virginia and other places," differentiating West Virginia's approach.
Addressing concerns from Berkeley County residents about local financial benefits, Governor Morrissey clarified that Berkeley County is slated to receive 30% of the tax revenue generated by the data center project. This aims to ensure local communities benefit directly from the substantial development.