Planning commission advances 1.14 million sq ft Project Carmel data center concept to detailed site plan
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Summary
The commission advanced Project Carmel, a concept plan proposing two data center buildings totaling 1,143,188 square feet on 115.73 acres, to the detailed site plan stage after staff found the concept compliant with subdivision ordinance requirements.
The Berkeley County Planning Commission approved advancement of the concept plan for Project Carmel (file 2501-005), clearing the large data center proposal to proceed to the detailed site plan stage after staff determined the concept plan meets subdivision ordinance requirements.
The developer, IB10 Martinsburg LLC, represented by Austin Williams of Kimley-Horn, proposes two data center buildings totalling 1,143,188 square feet on 115.73 acres in the Arden District (map 17, parcels 9 and 19), to be served by public water and sewer. County engineer Doug Smith deemed the project compliant with the subdivision ordinance (02/2024) on Feb. 25, 2025, and staff recommended advancement to detailed design.
During commission questions, the applicant confirmed the facilities are private-sector (general internet/data) data centers, that stormwater retention ponds are planned on-site, and that the proposed cooling systems are modern, lower-water-use designs; the applicant said no rainwater harvesting is planned. Commissioners asked about noise, lighting, and proximity to hospice and residential areas; the applicant said a noise study has been done and that the developer can provide additional information if needed. The applicant confirmed the project is entirely in Berkeley County, with no tied facilities in Jefferson County.
A motion to accept staff recommendation and advance the concept to the detailed site plan stage was made, seconded, and approved. The transcript records the motion as carried.
