As data center development across the country- especially along the East Coast- local governments are increasingly approached by developers. Although these projects can bring opportunities for localities, it is important to understand their wide-reaching impact on regions and communities.
Economic Impact: Data centers can generate tax revenue and jobs but also require significant investment in infrastructure.
Environmental Impact: Data centers consume large amounts of energy and water and result in an increase in regional emissions.
Land-use and Zoning: These large facilities require significant plots of land and may require conversion of agricultural or open land to industrial
Infrastructure: The electrical demand of data centers places strain on local grid capacity, often requiring utility upgrades to meet demand. High resource consumption can influence the cost and availability of local utilities.
Noise and Visual Pollution: Cooling systems and backup generators can create noise, and large buildings may alter the aesthetic of the community
Central Pines aims to be a convener for local governments as they are being approached for these developments to ensure that local jurisdictions understand the context and implications of these project, share resources so that local municipalities can coordinate their approaches, and identify strategies for informed, collaborative decision-making.
Below are resources that may be useful to our members as they navigate data center development in their communities:
- Fredericksburg, VA has developed an extensive website page that includes their original ordinance language, research, and updates on their consideration of a data center overlay.
- The Physical Footprint of Artificial Development - APA Zoning Practice
- Helping Communities Understand the Data Center Boom and Community Strategies to Address Data Center Development and Operations- National League of Cities