Major Development for Stafford Technology Campus
Stack Infrastructure has announced plans to develop a 1GW data center campus in Stafford County, Virginia. Known as the Stafford Technology Campus (STC), the project spans 500 acres and will feature up to 19 data centers and six 300MW substations from Dominion Energy. However, the company’s website mentions a potential for 23 buildings, though specific development timelines remain undisclosed.
Strategic Site Planning and Economic Benefits
According to Matt VanderZanden, COO of Stack Americas, “STC reflects Stack’s commitment to setting the standard for responsible data center development while delivering scalable, resilient infrastructure to meet the evolving needs of our clients.” VanderZanden emphasized the company’s focus on fostering economic and environmental benefits through strategic site planning and sustainable initiatives.
Stafford County’s Growing Appeal for Data Centers
Located south of Prince William County and southeast of Fauquier County, Stafford County is not traditionally associated with data center developments. However, its recent efforts to lower taxes on data center equipment have made it increasingly attractive for such projects. The STC site, situated east of US Route 1 at I-95, was rezoned in 2023 to accommodate data center construction, with plans for up to 5.8 million square feet of floor space.
Timeline for Construction and Development
The land was previously owned by Peterson Companies, a real estate firm that secured zoning approval for the site in September 2023. Construction is scheduled to begin in 2025, with the first phase expected to go live in 2027. Peterson Companies played a key role in securing utility commitments and entitlements, which laid the groundwork for the STC project.
Peterson Companies’ Role in the Project
Peterson Companies’ senior managing director, Taylor Chess, expressed pride in facilitating the development, stating, “By securing entitlements and utility commitments, Peterson Companies helped lay the foundation for this transformative economic development project.” The company’s prior experience in Stafford County and partnerships with local and state governments have enabled innovative projects like this one to move forward.
Stack Infrastructure’s Expanding Footprint
Founded in 2019, Stack Infrastructure operates data centers across the US, including in Atlanta, Chicago, Dallas Fort Worth, New Albany, Northern Virginia, Phoenix, Portland, and Silicon Valley. With 4GW of capacity in operation or development globally and another 6GW planned, Stack continues to expand its reach in the data center industry. The STC project is another step in the company’s mission to provide scalable infrastructure solutions.
Additional Developments in Stafford County
Stafford County is also attracting interest from other tech giants, including Amazon, which has plans for its own campus in the area. The county’s existing technology infrastructure and utility capabilities make it a favorable location for such developments.
FAQ Section
What is the capacity of the Stafford Technology Campus?
The STC is designed to support up to 1.1GW of power, with plans for 19-23 data centers and six 300MW substations.
When will construction begin and when is the first phase expected to go live?
Construction is set to begin in 2025, with the first phase projected to be operational by 2027.
Why is Stafford County becoming a hub for data centers?
Stafford County’s reduced taxes on data center equipment, existing infrastructure, and strategic location near major counties and highways make it an appealing site for data center developments.
Who previously owned the land for the Stafford Technology Campus?
The land was previously owned by Peterson Companies, a real estate firm that secured zoning and utility commitments before selling it to Stack Infrastructure.
What other companies are investing in Stafford County?
Amazon is among the notable companies planning developments in Stafford County, highlighting the region’s growing appeal for tech infrastructure.
