An AI data center at megasite will create 2,000 permanent positions, Pittsylvania County officials promise

Pittsylvania County officials recently disclosed comprehensive details regarding a proposed AI data center development by Stack Infrastructure at the Berry Hill megasite, aiming to alleviate growing community concerns. During a Monday community meeting, Economic Development Director Matt Rowe stated the project is an AI data center campus expected to create over 2,000 permanent positions, not just construction jobs, distinguishing it from traditional cloud facilities that require fewer staff. The draft performance agreement outlines a $73 billion investment and 2,050 jobs with average salaries of $85,000 over a 30-year period, potentially making it the largest development in Southside Virginia's history. Officials also addressed key public apprehensions, particularly concerning the impact on electric rates and water usage. Rowe clarified that the megasite is within Appalachian Power's service territory, separate from Danville Utilities, meaning the project will not affect Danville Utilities' ratepayers. Stack Infrastructure is expected to cover all costs associated with providing power to the campus, preventing any impact on Appalachian Power customers. Regarding water, Rowe explained that modern AI data centers often utilize closed-loop cooling systems, reducing consumption, and assured that the municipally sourced water from the Dan River, distributed by Danville Utilities, is ample for the project's needs, posing no threat to groundwater or neighboring wells. The development plan includes a state-mandated job creation grant, as the megasite is an enterprise zone, but no other discretionary monetary incentives will be provided to Stack Infrastructure. Pittsylvania County is actively working to establish a separate tax on data center equipment to generate additional revenue, which officials hope to reinvest into local schools and services. The Danville-Pittsylvania Regional Industrial Facilities Authority previously approved a land sale to a Stack Infrastructure affiliate in March, with the draft performance agreement anticipated to be finalized within the next two weeks. Despite some community opposition, officials emphasize the substantial economic benefits of the project and are addressing concerns such as emergency services and housing for new workers.