Strasburg residents question large-scale data center plans
A public forum in Strasburg, Virginia, addressed a planned 2 million square foot data center complex, Project Tallmadge, and the town's review process for future data center proposals. Residents expressed concerns regarding air quality, noise, pollution, water usage, and energy demand. Upcoming town council meetings are scheduled to continue discussions.
A recent public forum in Strasburg, Virginia, brought together local leaders, developers, and residents to discuss two key issues surrounding data center development in the region. One major topic was Project Tallmadge, a proposed two million square foot data center complex spanning 87 acres in Shenandoah County, adjacent to Interstate 81. The other focus was the town's updated review process, which, as of July last year, requires future data center projects in Strasburg to obtain a special use permit and undergo additional public scrutiny.
Residents, filling the old gym at Strasburg High School, submitted questions on various concerns, including water usage, drought resilience, energy demand, air quality, noise, and potential pollution. Strasburg Mayor Brandy Hawkins Boies and the chief commercial officer of Takanock, the company developing Project Tallmadge, were among the panelists addressing these queries. Resident Brenda Tennett voiced her worries about the project's proximity to her home, citing potential impacts on air quality, noise, and children's health, even considering moving if her concerns are not alleviated. The discussion is set to continue with a town council work session on July 6 and a town council meeting on July 14.