Loudoun County committee debates building height and landscape design for data center proposal

The Loudoun County Planning Commission convened on March 25, 2025, to discuss a significant land application concerning the development of a data center in the county. The meeting focused on the implications of the proposed project, particularly its impact on the existing landscape and community.

The session began with concerns raised by Commissioner Frank regarding the future viability of the office building at the center of the proposed development. He expressed skepticism about whether it would remain an attractive location for businesses in the coming years. This sentiment was echoed by other commissioners who emphasized the need for thoughtful design and enhanced landscaping in the project.

Commissioner Combs supported the motion to advance the discussion to a work session, highlighting the importance of maintaining the openness of the area and the need for improved landscape architecture. He noted the excessive parking proposed and urged for a more innovative approach to site constraints.

Commissioner Myers, while agreeing to move the discussion forward, clarified that his support did not equate to endorsement of the application. He reiterated that the existing building was part of a well-established campus and questioned the necessity of altering it significantly. He pointed out that the original agreements with the county and state were still valid and that the proposed changes lacked a compelling economic justification.

The conversation continued with various commissioners sharing their mixed feelings about the project. Some acknowledged the historical significance of the site and its evolution from a farm to a data center hub. They expressed a desire to preserve the character of the area while also considering the county's policies on data center placement.

The meeting concluded with a consensus to gather more detailed information for the upcoming work session, including a review of the proposed building heights, landscape designs, and the potential environmental impacts of the project. The commissioners agreed that further analysis was necessary to address community concerns and ensure that any development aligns with the county's long-term vision.