Counties Divided Over Data Center at Wildwood Park
Carroll County supervisors voted 6-0 to reject an agreement tied to a proposed $11 billion data center complex at Wildwood Commerce Park. The decision has divided Carroll, Grayson and Galax, and may prevent the Blue Ridge Crossroads Economic Development Authority from moving forward without Carroll County’s participation.
The proposed Wildwood Commerce Park data center complex, described as an investment of more than $11 billion with potentially over $1 billion in revenue over 10 years, has divided officials and residents in Carroll County, Grayson County and Galax. Grayson County leaders characterized the project as an economic lifeline, while supporters argued it could provide substantial long-term investment and revenue.
Carroll County supervisors voted 6-0 to reject an agreement with the Blue Ridge Crossroads Economic Development Authority, making Carroll the only participating locality to refuse the deal. The vote means the authority cannot proceed with an end user without returning to Carroll County, and county officials are considering withdrawing from the agreement altogether. Residents opposed to the arrangement said Carroll County should not give up its voice in decisions affecting the development.