Statement of the Governor on the Defense Department's Base Realignment and Closing (BRAC) Recommendations

Statement of the Governor on the Defense Department's Base Realignment and Closing (BRAC) Recommendations

Governor Mark R. Warner released the following statement in response to release of the Department of Defense BRAC recommendations:

"Overall, the Commonwealth appears to have fared reasonably well.

"This is a reflection of the strong efforts we have made with our local communities and members of our congressional delegation to make the case that Virginia has been a strong, reliable partner to our nation's military.

"For instance, Fort Belvoir leads the nation with a proposed gain of almost 12,000 military and civilian positions. Fort Lee could see an additional 7,300 personnel. Our Hampton Roads shipyards will grow, as will the world's largest navy base at Norfolk.

"We currently are analyzing the detailed documentation that accompanied today's announcement from the Defense Department to ensure that the correct information was used in compiling these recommendations. We will continue to work with local officials to marshal the strongest possible arguments in an effort to influence this process as it moves forward.

"On the recommendation to shift nearly 23,000 military and civilian jobs from leased office space in Northern Virginia, we will work with the commercial real estate industry to demonstrate their ability to ensure security of the facilities so the operational efficiency of remaining close to the Pentagon can be maintained.

"We will work with our congressional delegation and others to make the case in support of Fort Monroe, the only Virginia base targeted for closure.

"I have instructed members of the Virginia Commission on Military Bases to convene a meeting later today for a preliminary analysis of the potential impact of these BRAC recommendations.

"It is important that everyone recognize this is but one step in a lengthy process that will continue through the summer and fall."

http://www.governor.virginia.gov/Press_Policy/Releases/2005/May05/0513.htm