Letter to Secretary Wilson - NFARS Upgrades Will Improve Mission Readiness, Promote Economic Development In Western New York

Letter

Dear Secretary Wilson:

In an effort to work collaboratively with the United States Air Force (USAF) and strengthen the 914th Refueling Wing's ability to perform its current KC-135 mission, we ask for your assistance in making some infrastructure improvements at the Niagara Falls Air Reserve Station (NFARS). It is our understanding that a number of improvements are required for the base's apron, runway, hangars and hydrant system. While funding for some of these investments require Air Force MILCON and Operations & Maintenance expenditures, other improvements do not. USAF can partner with Defense Logistics Agency (Fuels) and other agencies for funding. Strategic infrastructure projects at NFARS allow the 914th to more efficiently perform their current mission while simultaneously positioning the installation to perform future mission requirements. We would strongly encourage you to identify the projects of need at the installation and include them in the Future Years Defense Plan (FYDP), including airfield apron improvements, runway overrun removal and replacement, modification of Hangar 707, and increased fuel hydrant pump capacity and fuel pits.

As you know, we have worked diligently to secure a KC-135 simulator at NFARS. Despite assurances by USAF leadership, NFARS was ultimately not selected to house a simulator--potentially harming NFARS' ability to execute its mission. However, USAF now has the opportunity to live up to its commitments to NFARS by making strategic infrastructure investments at the base. Infrastructure enhancements at NFARS would sustain and enhance its military value to the Air Force and its global mission. As the largest employer in the region and a significant contributor to the Air Force and Air Force Reserve Command (AFRC), solidifying the base is in everyone's best interest.

We know that you share our commitment to NFARS and to the men and women who serve there. That is why we believe that you will agree that improving the infrastructure at the base is of the utmost importance. We are grateful for your continued partnership in support of the Air Force and look forward to your response.

Sincerely,

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