Jimenez urges Planning Commission to reject substation

Mason District Supervisor Andres Jimenez has formally urged the Fairfax County Planning Commission to deny a substation application, citing community concerns regarding visual, noise, lighting, and environmental impacts. This substation is intended to serve two data centers planned by Starwood Capital Group at the Plaza 500 site in Bren Mar Park. Opposition to the substation is widespread, with the Alexandria City Council and Rep. Don Beyer also emphasizing the incompatibility of heavy industrial use near densely populated residential areas.

The Planning Commission is scheduled to hold a hearing on the substation on September 24, following a recommendation from the Mason District Land Use Committee on September 22. While Starwood Capital Group's data center itself is a "by-right" project, the substation's "2232 application" for public facilities requires Planning Commission review. Community groups, such as SaveBrenMar, are actively mobilizing residents to advocate for the substation's rejection.

Opponents acknowledge the necessity of a reliable electric grid but advocate for thoughtful planning that prioritizes neighborhood character and explores all available alternatives. If the Planning Commission denies the application, Dominion Energy or Starwood Capital Group could appeal to the Fairfax County Board of Supervisors, where opponents anticipate the Board will uphold the Planning Commission's decision. This local conflict is presented within the broader context of increasing nationwide opposition to data center developments, including moratoriums implemented or considered in other jurisdictions like Montgomery and Loudoun counties.