Kentucky One Step Closer to Landing New Homeland Security Research Lab

Kentucky One Step Closer to Landing New Homeland Security Research Lab

U.S. Representative Harold "Hal" Rogers announced today that the U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS) has selected Pulaski County, Kentucky as one of fourteen nationwide finalists for location and construction of a new National Bio and Agro-Defense Facility (NBAF). The Pulaski County site, located approximately ten miles northeast of Somerset, received high marks from an initial DHS review committee and now proceeds to the next phase of this ongoing competition.

Pulaski County was nominated by the Kentucky/Tennessee NBAF Consortium as the preferred location for this effort. This extraordinary two-state consortium, created with the help of Congressman Rogers, is pursuing an uncommon opportunity for regional development that could position Southern Kentucky and East Tennessee as a hub for homeland security scientific research. The KY/TN consortium partners include the University of Kentucky, the University of Tennessee, the University of Louisville, the Oak Ridge National Laboratory, and other supporting university and industry partners. It is supported by both governors and the congressional delegations serving Kentucky and east Tennessee.

"This is obviously great news, and puts us one step closer to our goal. I am proud of our team and the case we have made to locate this new federal research laboratory in Southern Kentucky," said Rogers. "We have assembled an extraordinary Consortium that combines the assets of Kentucky and Tennessee and highlights the resources of our region. We are up against very strong competition, but as the selection process indicates, we are effectively competing for this facility."

Rogers continued, "This proposal has unparalleled support from local governments, business and civic groups, and statewide organizations. It is now up to scientists and government experts to determine if Southern Kentucky will ultimately be the best fit for this new national lab."

In an effort to replace the aging Plum Island Animal Disease Center in New York, DHS announced plans in early 2006 to build a new national lab to serve as an integrated human, foreign animal and zoonotic disease research, development and testing center. DHS estimates the facility will contain approximately 500,000 square feet of lab space, with construction costs running upwards of $450 million. Once operational, the facility is expected to directly support over 400 jobs with an annual payroll of $30.5 million.

Other federal and state government leaders also joined Rogers today in offering praise for the Consortium's efforts and DHS' latest decision.

"Today's announcement recognizes the unique qualifications of our states to fulfill this vital homeland security need," said Senate Majority Leader Bill Frist. "I thank Chairman Rogers for his efforts and will continue to work with the Consortium to bring this important project to our region."

"Today's announcement is further proof that Kentucky is being recognized for its ability to be a leader in the field of bio research and testing," said Governor Ernie Fletcher. "I sincerely thank Congressman Rogers, Governor Bredesen and all the consortium members who are working diligently to bring the National Bio and Agro-Defense facility to Kentucky. I look forward to continuing our efforts to bring this project home to Kentucky."

The list of finalists announced today by DHS cover fourteen proposals located in eleven states. Over the next few months, DHS will be conducting site visits and gathering more information. Based upon those results, DHS will continue the process of narrowing down the field of possible sites. The next down-select decision could come by early next year.

http://halrogers.house.gov/Read.aspx?ID=88