Data center project in West Settlement Area promises $2B investment and 1236 permanent jobs

The King George Planning Commission meeting on December 10, 2024, highlighted a significant proposal for a new data center project that promises to reshape the local economy and job market. The proposed development, located in the Route 3 West Settlement Area, is set to cover an impressive 7.2 million square feet and is expected to generate substantial economic benefits for King George County.

The project is projected to bring in a minimum investment of $2 billion, primarily for the construction of the data centers. Over the next decade, it is anticipated to create approximately 16,000 temporary construction jobs, with around 1,236 permanent positions once the facilities are operational. These jobs will primarily be within the data center operations, offering opportunities for local residents, although there are concerns about the potential for many positions to be filled by workers on H-1B visas rather than local applicants.

The economic impact extends beyond job creation. The project is expected to generate about $19 million annually in tax revenue for the county, totaling an estimated $560 million over a 30-year period. This revenue will be crucial for funding local services and infrastructure improvements, enhancing the overall quality of life for residents.

While the proposal has been met with enthusiasm for its potential economic benefits, discussions also raised questions about the local workforce's ability to fill the new positions. The planning commission emphasized the importance of ensuring that local residents have access to these job opportunities, highlighting the need for workforce development initiatives to prepare the community for the jobs created by the data center.

In conclusion, the King George Planning Commission's discussions on the data center project reflect a pivotal moment for the county, with the potential for significant economic growth and job creation. As the project moves forward, the focus will be on maximizing local employment opportunities and ensuring that the community reaps the benefits of this substantial investment.