Briskman Seeks Study of GWU Campus Development Options

Algonkian District Supervisor Juli E. Briskman (D) is pushing for a comprehensive study into the development potential of George Washington University's 120-acre Virginia Science and Technology Loudoun campus in Ashburn, following its $427 million sale to Amazon Data Services last month. Briskman, along with Loudoun County Chair Phyllis Randall and Executive Director of Economic Development Buddy Rizer, expressed alarm over the lack of county consultation regarding the sale and Amazon's potential plans for the site. Supervisor Briskman stated her belief that Amazon intends to pursue data center development, despite consistent opposition from herself and the Board of Supervisors to such uses in the Algonkian District and across the county. She highlighted efforts last year to amend the Comprehensive Plan and Zoning Ordinance, requiring direct board approval for all future data center applications and removing "by-right" data center development from the property's specific zoning district. However, the campus may still be subject to the county’s 1972 Zoning Ordinance due to agreements tied to the Rt. 28 Tax District, potentially allowing Amazon to proceed with by-right development. Briskman's initiative, slated for consideration by the full board on April 7, proposes that county staff prepare a report detailing allowable uses, building limitations, setbacks, and buffer requirements for the property. The report would also map out potential power lines and substations needed for data centers. Briskman emphasized her desire for "full transparency" and her strong opposition to data centers near residential areas, Bles Park, and the Potomac River, which supplies drinking water to the region. She suggested alternative mixed-use developments, including public facilities like a library or recreation center, and flex industrial spaces.