AI Data Centers Shake Virginia Counties | Roanoke News

Massive AI computing campuses are sprouting up across the state, devouring land and power — one project’s a billion-dollar bet, another eyeing a thousand acres of farmland. With high-voltage lines slated to slice through communities, locals are sounding alarms over environmental damage, soaring water use, and skyrocketing electricity costs. Fearing unchecked growth like past data center booms, the governor stepped in, mandating that developers foot the bill for their own transmission lines — a move hailed as long overdue. Meanwhile, Wythe County, Virginia’s only jurisdiction without zoning laws, is facing backlash for secretive deals and closed-door meetings, even as officials tout millions in tax revenue for schools. A final public vote looms for September third — residents hope this marks a turning point toward transparency and community control. Listen in comfort:Get a discount on a Soli Pillow: http://solipillow.com/discount/dnn. Advertise on DNN:[email protected] This is an automated, high-level news summary based on public reporting.Report issues to [email protected]. View sources & latest updates:https://sources.thednn.ai/38d1844b175eac45