PJM, a regional transmission organization, has proposed new power transmission lines through the Waterford National Historic Landmark to support the needs of the data center industry. These proposed transmission lines pose a major threat to the integrity of the Waterford National Historic Landmark as the proposed path of the new transmission lines runs directly through the Landmark, through property under conservation easement with the Virginia Outdoors Foundation. Our Landmark status is intrinsically linked with the unspoiled viewshed surrounding our historic village. The Waterford Foundation stands opposed to such violation of our conservation values, and will work to oppose any impact to the integrity of Waterford’s Landmark status. See Waterford Foundation President Susan Manch’s letter to PJM here. Read the opposition letter from the National Park Service here.
We need your support to fight this threat. One thing that the Foundation has learned is the power of the Loudoun County community banding together for a common cause. Please see below for ways you can help us oppose this threat.
Stay in touch:
The Waterford Foundation is maintaining an email list for those who would like to stay informed about this issue. If you would like to be included, please email Historic Preservation Director Abigail Zurfluh here.
Learn more:
Our colleagues at Piedmont Environmental Council have been monitoring PJM’s transmission line proposals for some time. Visit their page to view a map of the proposed path and learn more about the issue.
Read public comment letters received by PJM at this link.
Register to attend the 12/5/23 meeting of the Transmission Expansion Advisory Committee via teleconference here. (Scroll down to select the 12/5/23 meeting.)
How you can help:
Share your concerns with decision makers:
- Contact PJM and local and state elected officials to voice your opposition to this proposal. Share what you see as the impact to you, your family, the community, and the NHL of having 300+ foot tall transmission towers going through the Phillips Farm and the Western Loudoun landscape.
- Emphasize the violation of easement protections, the high constructability risk, and strong public opposition which will add time and cost to their process as well as impacts to rural Loudoun businesses and wildlife.
Spread the word about this issue:
- Share social media posts from the Waterford Foundation, Piedmont Environmental County, Loudoun Wildlife Conservancy and other organizations to strengthen local opposition.
Important Dates:
By December 4th, 2023:
Contact PJM to voice your opposition to the proposed transmission line path.
All letters should be sent to David Anders, Secretary of the PJM Members Committee at david.anders@pjm.com.
By December 13th, 2023:
Contact your Loudoun County Supervisor to express your concern about the impacts of the data center industry on our protected open spaces. At their meeting on December 13th, they will be taking up a zoning issue regarding data centers. Share your support for developing a comprehensive plan to manage the growth of this industry.