Hundreds rally in Grandin Village demanding statewide data center moratorium
More than 200 residents rallied in Roanoke’s Grandin Village to demand a statewide freeze on new data center approvals. The protest was prompted by Google’s evaluation of a campus in Roanoke County and active construction activity for a proposed campus in Botetourt County, with residents citing concerns about water, electricity, environmental impacts and secrecy.
More than 200 Roanoke Valley residents gathered in Grandin Village to oppose new data center development and call for a statewide moratorium. Protesters cited potential pressure on water supplies, higher electric bills, environmental and noise impacts, and the use of nondisclosure agreements in regional economic development decisions.
Google is evaluating a campus at Wood Haven Technology Park in Roanoke County and is grading 312 acres in Botetourt County for a planned three-building campus totaling nearly 1 million square feet. Opposition leaders are urging the Virginia General Assembly to pause new approvals until environmental and utility safeguards are enacted. Del. Sam Rasoul supports the moratorium effort, while multiple bills proposing temporary or indefinite pauses are expected in the upcoming legislative session.