Loudoun County has been one of the fastest growing counties in the U.S. since the late 1990s and, was the fastest growing county in the nation from 2000 - 2006, among counties with a population greater than 100,000, according to the U.S. Census Bureau. Loudoun's population ranks third in Northern Virginia, behind Fairfax and Prince William counties and forecasts show that it will continue to have double-digit growth in each decade from 2010 through 2030.

Loudoun's pace of growth has meant residents pay higher taxes without receiving many needed services. With 37,000 currently approved but un-built residential units, public input is crucial in planning for the future. This input is needed to describe missing components in existing communities such as parks, schools, fire and rescue services and how to better meet the needs of residents. As development proposals are introduced, public input helps to judge the impacts across the county.

The pace of growth in Loudoun threatens the land and resources that define and sustain Loudoun County. PEC works to protect the drinking water supply of residents, preserve the County's heritage and natural beauty, promote a strong farm economy, and provide recreational opportunities that Loudoun's residents and visitors can enjoy now and in the future.