Google Gets Green Light for Virginia Data Center Grading

Botetourt County in Virginia has cleared Google to begin grading on its planned data center. The land disturbance permit was issued for the 312-acre site located inside the Botetourt Center at Greenfield, but it doesn't impact federal or state permits currently under review.

The county permit requires no wetlands to be disturbed and allows contractors to use dry support bridges for temporary access across the wetlands. It also mandates erosion control, stormwater management, and prohibits clearly audible noise after construction is complete.

Intermittent blasting during site preparation will be regulated by the Virginia State Fire Marshals Office, with no noise-generated activities allowed between 9:00 p.m. and 7:00 a.m.