Stafford County Data Centers Spark Rappahannock River Fight
Four proposed data centers along Kings Highway in Stafford County are drawing opposition from residents concerned about impacts to the Rappahannock River, wells, farmland, wildlife, noise and property values. The Kings Corridor projects remain under review, with a Planning Commission vote expected before consideration by the Board of Supervisors; the developer says the development would generate $245 million annually and fund water infrastructure.
Four proposed data center projects known as Kings Corridor are advancing through review in southeastern Stafford County near Kings Highway, farmland and the Rappahannock River. The Forest Lane, Simms Farm, Sisson North and Sisson South proposals would encompass roughly 11 million square feet and require rezoning, including a conditional-use permit for an electrical substation. Residents have raised concerns about noise, nighttime lighting, air pollution, wildlife, property values and possible effects on shallow wells and the river.
Residents are urging the Stafford County Planning Commission and Board of Supervisors to require enforceable water-use and environmental protections. Developer attorney Charles Payne said the projects could produce $245 million in annual county revenue, preserve 55% of the site as open space and use treated wastewater for cooling rather than groundwater or surface water. The projects remain under staff review, with a Planning Commission vote expected before any final decision by the Board of Supervisors.