Stafford County Poised for Major Data Center Expansion with Peterson’s 16-Building Campus Plan

Stafford County, Virginia, could soon become a significant hub for data center development as Peterson Companies, a US real estate firm, has officially filed plans for a sprawling 16-building campus. Dubbed Project Sisson, this initiative marks a strategic push into an area traditionally less known for such facilities but increasingly attractive due to its infrastructure and proximity to Northern Virginia’s data center corridor.

Project Sisson: A Closer Look at the Specifications
Strategic Location and Infrastructure Advantages
Background and Broader Context
Alternative Sites Considered and Environmental Stewardship
Implications for Stafford County and the Data Center Industry

Project Sisson: A Closer Look at the Specifications

The proposed campus, located off Kings Highway near Albion Lane along the Rappahannock River, is designed to include 16 two-story data center buildings spanning 3.8 million square feet. In addition to the data halls, the project will feature four electrical substations to support its power demands. A key aspect of the cooling strategy involves sourcing water from the Little Falls Wastewater Treatment Plant, situated less than two miles away, highlighting efforts to utilize local resources efficiently., as detailed analysis

However, the development is not without environmental considerations. The application acknowledges potential impacts on approximately four acres of wetlands and open water, prompting a review by the US Army Corps of Engineers’ Norfolk District. This step is crucial for ensuring compliance with environmental regulations and mitigating ecological disruptions.

Strategic Location and Infrastructure Advantages

Stafford County’s appeal lies in its robust utility infrastructure and strategic position adjacent to Northern Virginia, which handles an estimated 70% of global internet traffic. According to the permit application, this proximity was a decisive factor in selecting the site, as it allows for seamless integration into one of the world’s most critical data center networks.

Peterson Companies, through its affiliate Real Estate Pursuits 2 LC, has been actively preparing for this venture. Earlier this year, the affiliate sought rezoning of 850 acres from agricultural and light industrial to heavy industrial use, signaling long-term intentions for data center development in the area. This move aligns with Stafford County’s recent policy shifts, including reduced taxes on data center equipment, to attract high-tech investments.

Background and Broader Context

Peterson Companies, a privately-owned developer with a history in office, retail, and industrial properties, has been gradually expanding its footprint in the data center sector. While not primarily known for such projects, the firm has previously collaborated with Stack Infrastructure on developments in Prince William County and is exploring additional sites in Culpeper and Loudoun counties. This diversification reflects a growing trend among real estate firms to capitalize on the booming demand for data processing and storage.

Adam Cook, Peterson’s Managing Director for Development, emphasized that the company’s existing landbank in Stafford County, combined with the area’s utility capabilities, made it an ideal choice. The county is also gaining attention from other tech giants, with Amazon planning its own campus, further solidifying the region’s emergence as a data center destination.

Alternative Sites Considered and Environmental Stewardship

During the planning phase, Peterson evaluated other locations, including a site near the “Ren Fair” area north of King’s Highway, which could accommodate up to 13 buildings and three substations but posed greater risks to wetlands. Another option, the Blaisdell Site, offered space for 14 buildings and four substations but was dismissed due to its higher impact on streams, distance from the wastewater plant, and proximity to residential zones. The selected Project Sisson site aims to balance development needs with environmental responsibility, though it will still require careful management of wetland impacts.

For those interested in the technical details, the full public notice for Project Sisson is available via the US Army Corps of Engineers, and additional habitat documentation can be accessed through the Virginia Marine Resources Commission.

Implications for Stafford County and the Data Center Industry

If approved, Project Sisson could transform Stafford County into a competitive player in the data center market, leveraging its infrastructure to support the digital economy. The project underscores a broader expansion beyond traditional hubs like Loudoun County, as companies seek cost-effective locations with reliable power and connectivity. For Stafford, this development promises economic benefits, including job creation and increased tax revenue, while positioning Virginia even more firmly as a global leader in data infrastructure.

As the application undergoes review, stakeholders will be watching closely to see how Peterson navigates the regulatory landscape and addresses environmental concerns. With data center demand continuing to surge, projects like this one are likely to set precedents for future developments in emerging markets.