Goochland Residents Fight Data Center Expansion

Goochland residents have voiced strong opposition to Tract's proposal for a large-scale data center development. Dozens of locals recently gathered, expressing concerns about the impact of several data centers planned for the Tuckahoe Technology Park, an area bordering the Mosaic 55+ neighborhood. Tract plans a significant 900 megawatt, multi-facility project on 870 acres.

Key resident concerns revolve around potential noise pollution, the placement of diesel generators near homes, transmission line installations, and substantial water usage. Tract has committed to placing backup generators 1000 feet from the Mosaic residences and using air cooling to reduce water consumption, though this increases power demand.

The project requires rezoning some agricultural parcels to industrial, a change many residents oppose to preserve the area's rural character. Tract argues the development aligns with the county's long-standing comprehensive plan for economic growth. Inspiration for the strong local opposition comes from a recent rejection of a similar data center proposal in Hanover County.

While Tract highlighted potential benefits like tax revenue and job creation, residents remain skeptical, comparing the impact unfavorably to the Eli Lilly plant. Tract is currently refining its development plan before submitting a conditional use permit application. No firm timeline has been set for the application filing or subsequent review by county supervisors.