Strong Communities

A thoughtful approach to land use planning, paired with decision-making that balances growth and development with natural and cultural resource protection, is vital to maintaining a healthy and vibrant Piedmont region.

forested stream

Making Biscuit Run Park Available to Everyone

Biscuit Run Park is going to be a magnificent resource, and it wouldn’t be right for people of the Southwood community to be able to see the park, but not get to it easily …
The Environmental Footprint of the Digital Age

The Environmental Footprint of the Digital Age

Virginia is subsidizing billions of dollars in data center development on the backs of its ratepayers, without a full understanding of the long-term ramifications …
Cville Area Land Use Update: Week of September 25, 2023

Cville Area Land Use Update: Week of September 25, 2023

Charlottesville City Council to begin their review of new zoning code; Water and sewer projects status before Greene Supervisors …
One Approved, Another on the Horizon

One Approved, Another on the Horizon

Approval of Copper Ridge; Cielo data center campus proposed just east of Town …
IRP Comment Letter first page

PEC Responds to Dominion Energy’s Proposed 2023 Integrated Resource Plan

In September, The Piedmont Environmental Council’s Director of Land Use Julie Bolthouse submitted public comment on Dominion Energy’s proposed Integrated Resource Plan (IRP) as part of case number PUR-2023-00066 before the Virginia State Corporation Commission …
Mitigating Data Center Development's Impacts

Mitigating Data Center Development’s Impacts

Virginia is home to the largest concentration of data centers in the world, widely cited as hosting 70% of global internet traffic. This massive industry is continuing to grow very fast, requiring huge amounts of energy, …
a monopole cell tower over trees

Albemarle seeking input on cell tower changes

Albemarle County is considering changes to its regulations for wireless infrastructure. The County has launched an online survey, where you can submit feedback about the quality of your cell service and how you think towers should …