Greene County addresses data center, development concerns

Greene County Government recently addressed public concerns regarding potential data center development at its 630-acre Burnette Road Industrial Site. In a statement released Sunday, the county clarified that it has not received any specific requests for a data center at the site, located south of Farmville and bordered by Burnette Road, N.C. 13, U.S. 258, and Middle Swamp.

The county has invested significantly in preparing the site for industrial development, including conducting professional environmental, archaeological, and historical studies. The primary goal for the property is to attract major new investment, create jobs, grow the tax base, and strengthen the local economy, thereby easing the burden on existing taxpayers. The county notes that while there is interest in the property, this does not equate to permission to build.

Addressing specific concerns, Greene County assured residents that the historical and archaeological work has identified and documented cemeteries on the property. This information has been reported to the North Carolina State Historic Preservation Office, which has recommended a protective 100-foot buffer, which the county intends to uphold.

The statement reiterated that any major industrial development, including data centers, would undergo careful evaluation for its impact on the community. This includes assessing water and electricity needs, road and infrastructure requirements, proximity to homes and farms, environmental consequences, job creation, investment, and long-term community impact. The county also plans to regularly review development regulations and codes to protect community interests and will follow all North Carolina legal requirements for review, notice, hearing, and approval of any proposals, aiming for development that benefits both the community and its residents without undue burden.