Full Breakdown
Virginia Governor Pushes for Greater Transparency in Data Center Projects
By Drooid · · How we work
Transparency Initiative Targets Roanoke County Site
Governor Abigail Spanberger announced an executive order aimed at increasing openness in Virginia’s data-center industry. The order would prohibit the use of non-disclosure agreements (NDAs) that conceal project details from neighboring residents and would require developers to negotiate a community-benefits agreement that spells out tangible benefits before a project receives approval. The move was prompted by the Wood Haven Tech Park transaction in Roanoke County, where an NDA tied to a land sale has left the public unaware of the planned data-center’s scope.
Context: Data Center Growth and Confidentiality Concerns
Virginia has become a hub for large-scale data-center construction, attracting significant private investment and promising job creation. However, developers often rely on NDAs to protect proprietary information, limiting local insight into land use, environmental impact, and community commitments. The governor’s proposal seeks to balance the industry’s competitive edge with the public’s right to information about projects that affect neighborhoods and local resources.
Official Statements & Responses
WDBJ7 reported that attempts to contact economic developers involved in the Wood Haven Tech Park project did not yield comment.
Verbatim Quotes
- “We await further details on how these policy goals will be implemented by Governor Spanberger and the General Assembly, and are ready to engage with policymakers to ensure workable, balanced policies that keep Virginia competitive and honor prior commitments by the Commonwealth and its localities,” — Nicole Riley
