Midlothian plans data center with capped water use and reduced parking requirements

On June 17, 2025, the Midlothian Planning and Zoning Commission convened to discuss significant developments in the area, particularly focusing on a new data center project that aims to mirror the recently approved Digital Realty facility. The meeting highlighted key aspects of the proposed project, including water usage, infrastructure requirements, and employment implications.

The primary topic of discussion revolved around the water cooling system for the new data center. The project has set a cap of 5,000 gallons of water usage per day per building, totaling a maximum of 40,000 gallons across eight buildings. This mechanical cooling system is designed to minimize water dependency, which is a crucial consideration given the area's water resources. The applicant assured the commission that they would work closely with local water authorities to ensure adequate infrastructure is in place, as the site currently lacks necessary water lines.

Another significant point raised during the meeting was the parking requirements for the new facility. The proposed data center has requested significantly less parking than the Digital Realty project, which had been criticized for its excess. The applicant explained that data centers typically do not require a large workforce, and thus, the parking ratio reflects the expected employee count rather than a direct correlation to parking space availability. This has raised questions among commission members about the adequacy of parking in relation to potential future employment growth.

The commission also discussed the architectural design of the buildings, confirming that all eight structures would share a consistent aesthetic, as represented in the submitted plans. This uniformity is intended to maintain a cohesive look within the industrial area.

In conclusion, the meeting underscored the ongoing development pressures in Midlothian, particularly in the industrial sector. The discussions revealed a balancing act between accommodating new businesses, ensuring sustainable resource use, and addressing community concerns about infrastructure and employment. As the project moves forward, further evaluations will be necessary to address the infrastructure needs and the implications of reduced parking on future employment opportunities. The commission's next steps will involve continued scrutiny of the project's details to ensure it aligns with the city's growth objectives and community standards.