Virginians rally at Capitol over data center expansion concerns
Dozens of Virginians rallied at the Capitol Bell Tower in Richmond, calling on lawmakers to halt data center permitting and enact stronger regulations. Concerns include the environmental impact, strain on water and electricity resources, and a lack of transparency in rezoning processes. Opposition efforts are ongoing, particularly in Hanover County.
Dozens of concerned Virginians rallied at the Capital Bell Tower in Richmond on Saturday, urging state lawmakers to implement a halt on data center permitting until more robust regulations are established. Virginia is currently home to 736 data centers, either operational or under construction, making it a focal point for expansion.
Protestors voiced a range of concerns, highlighting the threat to critical and dwindling resources, citing the example of the Spring Hollow reservoir in the area being 19 feet below pond level. They also demanded total transparency, an end to "backroom rezoning," and no more undisclosed deals regarding data center development. The rally aimed to galvanize opposition against politicians perceived as not prioritizing public interest, referencing a Google data center project in the area.
Jennifer Corpus, who has been actively mobilizing residents in Hanover County against multiple data center projects, emphasized the power of community action. Beatrix J, another Virginia resident, acknowledged the economic benefits of technology but stressed the importance of questioning and demanding protection of community resources and quality of life. The protestors called for community involvement from the outset of any development decisions, asserting that people can be stronger than tech companies.