Two critical opportunities are coming up to advocate for undergrounding of the proposed “Golden to Mars” electric transmission line, an unprecedented high voltage line cutting through a dense suburban community in eastern Loudoun to provide power to data centers in the County.
Our Region
PEC focuses on nine counties and one city in the northern Piedmont of Virginia: Albemarle, Charlottesville, Clarke, Culpeper, Fauquier, Greene, Loudoun, Madison, Orange, and Rappahannock.
We also team with local organizations to promote thriving communities and healthy natural resources in a much larger region, including the Shenandoah Valley, the central Piedmont, and the Journey Through Hallowed Ground Corridor. In addition, we are proud to serve as fiscal sponsor of the Coalition for Smarter Growth, an organization that focuses on land use and policy in the greater Washington D.C. area.
Golden to Mars Project Timeline
Dominion Energy plans to build 8.4 miles of new transmission infrastructure in the Ashburn and Dulles area to carry 500 kV and 230 kV powerlines to Data Center Alley.
The proposed Golden to Mars transmission line (red) is part of a three-segment loop proposed by Dominion to move more power to data centers.
Known as the Golden to Mars line, it is the last segment of a three-part loop to serve Data Center Alley, which connects with the Aspen to Golden line (under litigation) and the Wishing Star to Mars line. It also includes two offshoot 230 kV loops (Lockridge and Sojourner).
SCC Talking Points: Golden to Mars Tranmission Line
In order to have the most impact, it is important to tailor your comments to the SCC’s priorities and objectives, as their decision-making is guided by strict standards. PEC has put together the following talking points to help you craft your comment.
Fall Tree Planting Volunteer Opportunities
We are so excited for our three volunteer tree plantings this fall! Planting native trees and shrubs along streams, rivers, and ponds – also known as riparian buffers – is a way to help clean water and connect wildlife habitat.
Gigaland Application Withdrawn: Our Community’s Voice Was Heard!
In a victory and a testament to the power of civic engagment, the developers for the proposed Gigaland data center project in Remington have officially withdrawn their application. However, the developers have stated their intention to submit a new, revised application as soon as January.
Join Us for a Data Center Community Meeting: Tuesday, Sept. 16
Join us for a community meeting in Charlottesville Tuesday, Sept. 16, from 6-8 p.m. to hear from PEC’s data center experts about the industry’s environmental impacts and how advocating for better regulations and transparency in both the county and the state can help catalyze better outcomes for communities.
Cville Land Use for August 18, 2025
This week: Updates on Albemarle County’s rules for riparian buffers and a meeting on AC44.
Facts About the Gigaland Data Center Project
A massive data center complex known as Gigaland is being proposed in Remington, Fauquier County VA. The Piedmont Environmental Council (PEC) opposes the outsized development, which we believe will overwhelm the town and open the door for more data centers and transmission lines, straining electricity and water supplies in Fauquier and contributing to unhealthy air, noise and water pollution.
Cville Land Use: Week Ahead for August 11, 2025
This week: The Albemarle Board of Supervisors is slated Wednesday to adopt an economic development strategic plan at a joint meeting with the Albemarle Economic Development Authority
Rivanna Festivities & Take Action
This text was taken from an email alert sent out on July 29, 2025. Sign up for email alerts →
Dear Supporter,
If you’ve spent any time around the Rivanna River this summer, then you’ve experienced first-hand the benefits of increased public access to nature and the environment. This is a key focus area for PEC because access to nature improves the health and well-being of individuals and communities, it creates a deeper connection to place and often inspires enhanced stewardship and love of the environment.
Read on to learn about upcoming happenings around and about the Rivanna River this summer and fall — and how you can get involved!
Ways to Get Involved
Sign the Petition: Make Free Bridge Lane Permanently Car-free
Late last year, Albemarle County closed Free Bridge Lane to automobile traffic, creating a highly accessible and safe riverside space for walking, running and biking. That action has proven quite popular, and the Board of Supervisors will discuss making the closure permanent at its August 6 meeting.
In our petition, we’re asking Albemarle County to:
- permanently transition Free Bridge Lane from underutilized roadway to public park
- fund and build a first wave of safety, access and environmental improvements
- budget significant funding for buildout Free Bridge Lane and the larger Rivanna River Greenway
There is no guarantee this will happen without strong public support. Here are some ways you can help:
- Sign the petition. This is a simple way to be on record supporting this effort.
- Contact the Board of Supervisors directly and tell them why places like Free Bridge Lane are important to you.
- Attend the Aug. 6 meeting and consider speaking during the public comment period (at the beginning of the meeting).
Board of Supervisors Regular Meeting
Wed., Aug. 6, 1 – 4:30 p.m. (Public Comment around 1:30 p.m.)
County Office Building, 401 McIntire Road
Although the county has long term plans for a promenade, right now, Free Bridge Lane is a bit of an empty canvas where new temporary installations or popup events are possible. Some are already happening. If you have an idea for improvements, projects, activities, or events you would like to see in the future, you can share your ideas here.
A team of PEC Summer Fellows has prepared an idea book of (mostly) practical ways to transform the disused roadway into a lively park. Take a look!
The wider network of riverside greenways (and blueways!) will be topics at two upcoming gatherings.
Mobility Alliance Meeting + Social
Fri., Aug. 8, 4 – 6 p.m.
Decipher Brewing, 1540 Broadway Street
Do you like to walk, bike, run or paddle – or just move freely in fresh air? The Piedmont Mobility Alliance is a coalition focused on making it easier and safer to get outdoors. This casual gathering will be a chance to learn, share, and collaborate, with a special emphasis on the Rivanna River.
All are welcome! There will be beer specials, plenty of non-alcoholic options, snacks, plus pizza and pretzels for purchase.
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Annual Rivanna Basin Conference
Wed., Sept. 24, 9:30 a.m. – 3 p.m.
The Center at Belvedere, 540 Belvedere Boulevard
This year’s conference focuses on water supply planning within the context of the region’s data center development and a growing need for drought resilience. PEC Director of Land Use, Julie Bolthouse, will speak about our data center reform efforts across the state. Additional speakers, tabling organizations and a full agenda to come.
Speaking of the Rivanna, registration will open this Friday, Aug. 1 for the annual Loop de Ville Trail Fest!
Loop de Ville Trail Fest
Sat. Sept. 27, All Day (Raindate: Sun., Oct. 5)
Hikes, runs, rides of various distances, Rivanna River Company, 1520 E High Street
The Loop de Ville celebrates Public Lands Day on the beloved Rivanna Trail, which encircles Charlottesville and links to the Rivanna River. The day features numerous hikes, walks, runs, and bike rides for people of all abilities, including a 3-mile riverside walk and half-loop — with guides and support along the way.
An event of this size needs the support of the community to make it happen. Consider signing up to be a sponsor or volunteer, both of which are needed.
See you in the community,
Faith Schweikert
Communications Specialist
[email protected]
(434) 977-2033 x7026