Hanover Planning Commission recommends approval for new data center project
The Hanover Planning Commission has recommended approval for a new data center project off Mountain Road, near the Henrico line, following months of public discourse. This decision came after residents voiced significant concerns regarding water usage and traffic, prompting the developer to revise plans and commit to water system improvements. The recommendation will now proceed to the Board of Supervisors for a final vote.
The Hanover Planning Commission voted 8-1 to recommend approval for a new data center project following a public forum and extensive discussions. The proposed data center, developed by "Track," would be built on a 427-acre plot of land off Mountain Road, near the Henrico County line.
This decision follows previous deferrals by the Commission and the developer to address community concerns. Residents highlighted issues such as noise, traffic, and particularly, the potential water usage of 600,000 gallons per day upon full build-out. The developer's representatives indicated changes to the plan, including limiting entrances and a commitment to invest in major projects to improve surrounding water systems. They also stated the data center could generate about $900 million for the county over 20 years and create approximately 1,000 construction jobs.
The Planning Commission's favorable recommendation is not a final approval. The proposal will now be forwarded to the Board of Supervisors, who will make the ultimate decision on the data center project.