Google's second Chesterfield data center could impact wetlands
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A Google data center in Nevada. Photo: Bizuayehu Tesfaye/Las Vegas Review-Journal/Tribune News Service via Getty Images
Google's proposed western Chesterfield data center campus could disturb wetlands, streams and possible unmarked graves, according to newly released federal permit filings.
Why it matters: The documents offer one of the clearest looks yet at "Project Loch," which is part of Google's broader $9 billion expansion in Virginia.
State of play: The tech giant is seeking federal approval to build a three-building campus with substations, utility infrastructure and stormwater facilities near Route 288 and Watkins Center Parkway, per filings published last week.
- The roughly 350-acre project, announced last year with few public details, is intended to support the growing demand for AI and data processing.
- In its permit application, Google said it chose Chesterfield for the site due to the county's workforce, available land, reliable power and "adequate water supply."
- And last June, Chesterfield's Board of Supervisors praised the project's expected economic impact and tax revenue potential.
Zoom in: Federal filings estimate the project could impact 4.8 acres of wetlands and over 2,800 feet of streams, triggering review from the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers under the Clean Water Act.
- Google redesigned parts of the campus to avoid about 74% of wetlands on-site, with remaining impacts tied to construction, drainage systems and access roads.
- To offset the damage, the company proposes restoring or preserving wetlands and streams elsewhere.
Plus: Dry Bridge Cemetery sits on-site, and consultants said the area — which had already been heavily disturbed — could contain unmarked graves.
- They recommended a 25-foot buffer and further investigation.
What they're saying: Google and Chesterfield officials didn't directly address questions about the project's potential impacts on wetlands or the possible burial site.
- But a Google spokesperson told Axios the project is still in the "early" stages in the "due diligence process" and that it's prioritizing minimizing environmental impact and adjusting designs based on site evaluations.
- The company and Chesterfield have already held several community meetings for public input on the proposal, Chesterfield Economic Development Director Garrett Hart told Axios.
What's ahead: Public comment on the application is open through June 11.
Go deeper: The plans for Google's first of three Chesterfield data center campus