Botetourt County Pipeline Permit Advances Amid Google Data Center Concerns

The Botetourt County Planning Commission deadlocked on a water pipeline permit request from the Western Virginia Water Authority, sending it to the county's Board of Supervisors for a final decision.

The proposed 3,800-foot pipeline would deliver high-pressure water to over 40 households in the area, according to authority officials. They claim the project will bring much-needed fire hydrants and provide a reliable public water alternative to families relying on private wells.

However, many residents expressed deep distrust of the water authority, sharing fears that the pipeline could eventually be diverted to supply a proposed Google data center in the county.

The commission's 2-2 tie vote means the permit will move forward to the Board of Supervisors with a recommendation for approval. Planning Commission Chair Beth Leffel defended the project, stating it was necessary for public safety due to the lack of water infrastructure in the subdivision.