County mulls ending by-right data center development – a move that could save Jiffy Lube Live

The Prince William County Planning Commission voted 5-2 to recommend a significant zoning text amendment aimed at curbing "by-right" data center development within the county. If approved by the Prince William County Board of Supervisors, the proposal would shrink the county's "data center opportunity zone overlay district" from approximately 9,700 acres to 3,500 acres. This change would necessitate a "special use permit" for all new data center projects, requiring a detailed review process by the supervisors.

Key areas like the Jiffy Lube Live outdoor music venue and land acquired for the county's 14th high school would be removed from the overlay district, addressing long-standing concerns from residents and elected officials about their vulnerability to data center development due to escalating land values. The initiative builds on earlier proposals by the late Supervisor Bob Weir and has been championed by Board Chair Deshundra Jefferson and Supervisor Tom Gordy, who highlight how data center expansion has driven up property costs.

During the commission's debate, Commissioners Chris Carroll and Blake Ross opposed a proposed 180-day "grace period" for developers to submit by-right applications, arguing it was too generous. However, Commissioner Brian Landrum advocated for the 180-day period to mitigate potential lawsuits from developers who have already invested in land. Prince William County Planning Director Tanya Washington anticipates continued data center applications regardless of the amendment. The county supervisors are slated to review and vote on the plan in September, with no public hearing date set yet.