By Monica Johnson
Publication Date: 2026-10-15 22:45:00
BOTETOURT CO., Va. – A coalition of environmental groups is asking the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers to release updated documents, reopen public comment and hold a public hearing on Google’s proposed data center campus in Botetourt County.
In an Oct. 9 letter drafted by Appalachian Mountain Advocates and EAST, the Environmental Accountability and Strategy Team, on behalf of 19 other organizations, the coalition raised concerns about potential impacts to streams, wetlands and water quality.
The groups argue that additional environmental information submitted after the Corps’ original public comment period ended April 9 should be made available for public review before the agency makes a permit decision.
The coalition is requesting at least 30 days for additional public comments and a hearing in Botetourt County.
EAST member Sylvia Powell said a public hearing would give residents another opportunity to voice their concerns about the proposed development.
“My hope, of course, is…
