Schumer, Clinton: Senate Approves $48.9 Million for Military Construction Projects in the Hudson Valley

SCHUMER, CLINTON: SENATE APPROVES $48.9 MILLION FOR MILITARY CONSTRUCTION PROJECTS IN THE HUDSON VALLEY

Funding is part of Department of Defense Military Construction Appropriations approved by the Senate
US Senators Charles E. Schumer and Hillary Rodham Clinton announced today that the Senate has given preliminary approval for $48.927 million for military construction projects in the Hudson Valley, including $34.5 million for the Library and Learning Center at the U.S. Military Academy at West Point, $10.6 million for family housing improvements at West Point and $3.827 million for the National Guard Organizational Maintenance Shop in Kingston.

The news came as the Senate approved the FY 2005 Department of Defense Military Construction bill late Monday night. With its passage by the Senate, the bill will now go into conference with the House version before being approved by Congress.

"The citizen soldiers of New York's National Guard have selflessly sacrificed to fight the war abroad and to defend our security at home," Senator Schumer said. "The government owes them nothing less than to support them with the absolute best training and equipment available. By making good on that responsibility and contributing to the local economy, the Organizational Maintenance Shop funding is a win-win for the Kingston area. I'm also extremely pleased that funding in this bill will help West Point to continue its tradition of shaping the character of our future military leaders. I've always been very proud of the role that West Point, a New York institution, has played in educating those who serve their country and am happy that this funding will continue that mission."

"The members of our National Guard playing an increasingly important role in operations both at home and overseas, serving their country with honor and distinction and making incredible sacrifices. Now more than ever is it critical that we give them the best equipment, the most advanced tools and the best training possible. I am glad that Kingston's Organizational Maintenance Shop will receive these funds," Senator Clinton said. "During my visit to West Point in 2003 I saw first hand the remarkable education it provides to our Army's future leaders. It has played a prominent role in the Army for generations and it continues to be one of the finest learning centers in the country. I believe that now more than ever we need to continue this proud tradition and prepare our young leaders at West Point for the challenges of serving their country."