AI-generated illustration; not a photograph of the reported event.
- calendar_today November 13, 2026
Background: Construction Noise Raises Community Concerns
Oppidan, a data center developer, is currently building a new facility adjacent to the Hanover Humane Society and a popular dog-walking trail in Ashland, Hanover County, Virginia. As construction progresses, concerns have emerged from both local residents and the humane society regarding noise and potential disruptions caused by the project.
Discussions Between Oppidan and Hanover Humane Society
On a recent phone call in October, Alethea White-Previs, president of the Hanover Humane Society board of directors, engaged with Oppidan and the company’s southeast development director, Woodie Williams. The focus of the discussion was to explore better approaches for noise mitigation as construction continues next to the humane society’s kennel site.
Sound Study to Address Noise Levels and Animal Welfare
During the call, Williams informed White-Previs that Oppidan had started reaching out to sound engineering firms to secure proposals for a sound study at the kennel site. This study aims to evaluate current noise emissions from the ongoing data center construction and recommend appropriate steps for noise reduction.
According to White-Previs, animals at the humane society have already experienced negative effects from the noise. She observed that noise emissions may be exceeding 75 decibels (dB), a level she feels is too high for the animals’ comfort. She hopes to see average sound levels drop to around 60 dB, which is similar to the volume of a normal conversation. Increased noise, especially levels approaching 80 dB, can reportedly cause stress-related symptoms in canines, such as shaking, digestive issues, and reluctance to be walked near the site.
Advocating for Sound Barriers and Clear Agreements
The Hanover Humane Society is advocating for specific noise mitigation measures, including the installation of barriers to block or dampen sound from the data center construction and any future warehouse developments alongside the trail. White-Previs stated that details regarding the sound study’s implementation will become clearer soon. The society expects to receive a signed agreement outlining the terms and specifics of the sound study at their kennel site.
The goal is to finalize this agreement by Thanksgiving, according to White-Previs. She expressed optimism that if terms can be settled promptly, mitigation measures could be implemented by Christmas, or shortly thereafter if necessary.
Awaiting Further Developments
Oppidan has not released additional details about the sound study or its noise mitigation plans as of yet. The company has acknowledged the community’s concerns and is moving forward with evaluating solutions that will benefit both the humane society and neighboring residents. Updates are expected as discussions progress and the study results are made public.
Source: wric.com.
