News Summary
The Board of Supervisors in James City County has voted to implement zoning changes that limit the establishment of data centers. The new regulations confine data centers to the general industrial district and require a special use permit, signaling a shift in the county’s industrial development approach. Ongoing community concerns surrounding environmental and cultural impacts influenced the decision, particularly in the Grove community. This amendment reflects a growing scrutiny of data centers across Virginia, balancing economic growth against local sentiments.
James City County Implements Zoning Changes to Limit Data Centers
James City County’s Board of Supervisors has voted 5-1 to enact new zoning regulations aimed at restricting the development of future data centers within the county. Barbara Null was the sole supervisor to oppose the amendment during the recent meeting. The new zoning amendment confines the establishment of data centers to the county’s general industrial district and mandates that developers obtain a special use permit before proceeding with construction.
Previously, data centers were allowable in five different zoning districts, including areas designated for business, industrial, mixed-use, research, and technology. This change indicates a significant shift in the county’s approach to managing industrial development, as it aims to ensure greater oversight and scrutiny of data center proposals.
As part of the new regulations, a formal definition of data centers has been introduced. The Board of Supervisors has also tasked county staff with creating a policy that will guide the review process for proposed facilities. This new framework is designed to address concerns surrounding the unregulated proliferation of data centers, particularly in light of increased industrial development in the region.
Data centers, which serve as facilities for storing, processing, and managing digital information, are typically housed in large warehouse structures equipped with computers, network equipment, and servers. While these facilities can contribute positively to local economies by generating additional tax revenue with minimal traffic disruption, they also pose challenges, including high energy and water consumption, air pollution, and noise pollution.
In conjunction with the zoning amendment, residents in the Grove community have actively expressed their opposition to a potential data center project in their area. Concerns raised include historical and cultural sensitivities attached to the region. A petition led by activist Robin Wootten against data centers in Grove has collected nearly 100 signatures, highlighting the strong local sentiment against such developments.
The discussion around zoning changes coincides with deliberations in other localities across Virginia, where officials are also reassessing policies related to data centers. Notably, recent developments in Charles City County saw a developer withdraw from a proposed data center project, illustrating the growing scrutiny over such facilities.
In contrast, northern Virginia remains home to a high concentration of data centers, with counties such as Fairfax and Loudoun housing approximately 300 facilities. This data center boom has raised questions among James City County officials, particularly regarding the potential economic benefits versus the environmental implications.
Concerns about limiting data centers to a single area were expressed by Supervisor Michael Hipple, who emphasized the need for comprehensive information before making definitive zoning decisions. He raised apprehensions about the county potentially missing out on significant revenue opportunities as industry needs continue to evolve.
Chair of the Board of Supervisors, Jim Icenhour, reinforced the necessity for a thorough review process for data center proposals, prioritizing oversight over the previously existing administrative approvals known as by-right usage. This strategy seeks to balance economic growth with the community’s environmental and cultural interests.
On the same day the zoning amendment passed, the Board also approved a special use permit for Evolution House, a substance use treatment facility located on Rochambeau Drive. This facility will cater to adult men recovering from substance use disorders and is designed to accommodate up to 16 residents with on-site staff. Evolution House will join a network serving nine sites across Hampton Roads, expanding local support resources.
As James City County navigates the implications of these zoning changes, officials remain tasked with addressing both community concerns and the potential for economic growth through careful management of future industrial developments, particularly in the area of data centers.
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Additional Resources
- Daily Press: James City County Approves New Zoning Amendment
- Technology Review: AI Data Centers Environmental Impact
- Bisnow: Akerman’s James Grice on Changing Data Centers
- Wikipedia: Data Center
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Data Center
Author: STAFF HERE WILLIAMSBURG WRITER
WILLIAMSBURG STAFF WRITER The WILLIAMSBURG STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREWilliamsburg.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Williamsburg, James City County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as Williamsburg Farmers Market, Yorktown Market Days, and Busch Gardens Food & Wine Festival. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Greater Williamsburg Chamber of Commerce and Colonial Williamsburg Foundation, plus leading businesses in education and hospitality that power the local economy such as College of William & Mary, The Williamsburg Winery, and Sodexo. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREVirginiaBeach.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Virginia's dynamic landscape.
