Have questions about Google’s data center project in Botetourt County? We have some answers.

Google is developing a large data center campus on 312 acres in Botetourt County, Virginia's Greenfield Industrial Park, following a $14 million land deal with the county. The project, unofficially named "Project Raspberry," will feature three data centers, three substations, and an office building, with construction expected to begin in spring or summer. The industrial park's zoning was amended in November 2024 to permit data centers. Key public concerns revolve around water and environmental impacts. The data center is projected to initially use an estimated two million gallons of water daily from Carvins Cove, a primary reservoir for the region, potentially rising to eight million gallons with future expansions. The Western Virginia Water Authority expects Google to become its largest customer. Both Botetourt County and Google have committed to financing long-range water supply studies and exploring additional sources and water reuse. Environmentally, the project is expected to permanently impact about 3 acres of non-tidal wetlands and nearly 7,000 linear feet of stream channels, necessitating mitigation credits. Additionally, approximately 120 acres of forested Indiana bat habitat will be removed, with tree clearing restricted to specific months to protect the endangered species. The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers has solicited public comments on Google's permit application, noting the company's environmental impact estimates have not yet been fully verified. Regarding energy, Google will purchase all 79 megawatts from the Rocky Forge wind farm in Botetourt County, though this will not cover the data center's full capacity. Botetourt County is responsible for significant water supply project costs, up to $100 million, with Google agreeing to pay a proportional amount for infrastructure and future water supply planning, as an agreement is finalized between the county and the company.