Lorax-costumed protester joins opposition to Google data center in Botetourt County
Over 100 demonstrators, including a person dressed as the Lorax, protested a proposed Google data center project in Botetourt County, Virginia, during a public meeting. Residents, represented by the Southwest Virginia Data Center Transparency Alliance, are calling for public review of the project's environmental and infrastructure costs. Google and county leaders emphasized local job creation, capped water use, and Google's commitment to paying for its own power and water infrastructure, while the project remains in the permitting process.
More than 100 demonstrators, including a protester dressed as the Lorax, gathered in Botetourt County, Virginia, to oppose a proposed Google data center. The protest coincided with a public meeting held by leaders from Botetourt County and Google at Lord Botetourt High School on Wednesday, June 17, regarding the data center planned for the Botetourt Center in Greenfield.
The Southwest Virginia Data Center Transparency Alliance, representing local residents, is demanding a public review of the project's environmental and infrastructure impacts. Protester Silver Shearer highlighted the widespread opposition, stating that "Every house has a sign that says, 'No data center.'"
County officials and Google's Virginia market development and advocacy lead, Cathie Vick, addressed some concerns. They stated that the data center would cap water use, Google would fund its own power and water infrastructure, and the project is expected to generate valuable tax revenue. Vick also emphasized Google's commitment to creating local jobs for both construction and long-term positions, aiming to recruit within a 50-mile radius and partner with local contractors for services.
Google confirmed that the project is still in the permitting process, with the company collaborating closely with local authorities to ensure all requirements are met before construction begins.