WHEELING, W.Va. — A proposed data center development in Warwood is expected to remain primarily under the City of Wheeling’s review process rather than a new statewide framework being promoted for large-scale data center projects in West Virginia.
Gov. Patrick Morrisey recently outlined a series of principles aimed at what his administration describes as responsible development of hyperscale data centers across the state. The proposal addresses issues including statewide planning, protection of utility ratepayers and water resources, development standards and potential tax benefits for residents.
However, Morrisey indicated that the proposed Warwood project does not appear to fall under the state law governing qualifying large-scale data center developments.
That distinction could leave decisions surrounding the Warwood proposal largely in the hands of Wheeling officials.
The project has generated significant discussion among Warwood residents, particularly over potential impacts involving water, electricity, noise, location and the proximity of the development to surrounding neighborhoods.
Morrisey said the state wants future qualifying projects to include protections addressing issues such as clean water, appropriate setbacks and community involvement. He also acknowledged that projects falling outside the state’s framework may not be subject to the same protections.
The Warwood proposal is planned for the former Centre Foundry property within Wheeling city limits. Representatives involved with the project previously described plans for a 10-megawatt data center along with a manufacturing component at the site.
Because of the project’s location and scope, its development will continue through applicable City of Wheeling review and approval processes.
The proposal remains under consideration as residents and city leaders continue discussing what the development could mean for Warwood and the surrounding community.
