WASHINGTON, DC – The Kansas federal congressional delegation and the Governor of Kansas Friday announced the Department of Homeland Security awarded the contract for construction of the Central Utilities Plant (CUP), a critical step forward in construction of the National Bio and Agro-Defense Facility (NBAF) in Manhattan.
Friday’s action by the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) awards $40 million in Fiscal Year 2011 appropriations to be spent on construction of the CUP without further delay. The CUP will be a free standing 87,000 sq. ft. building built on the NBAF site on the Kansas State University campus in Manhattan. Construction of the CUP is expected to be completed in two and a half years.
U.S. Senator Pat Roberts: “This was the next step we have all been waiting for and moves us further down the construction timeline. We will continue to work together to monitor each step in the process to ensure NBAF remains a top national security priority.”
U.S. Senator Jerry Moran: “I’m glad to see that the Department of Homeland Security and Secretary Napolitano have awarded the $40 million utility work contract for the NBAF. The contract being confirmed is good news for Kansas, and without the capabilities NBAF provides our country is at risk from foreign animal disease threats.”
Governor Sam Brownback: “In signing the contracts to proceed with construction of the NBAF’s Central Utility Plant, DHS is confirming their commitment to moving forward with construction of the laboratory facility itself. We applaud this big step forward, and the state stands ready to continue in its partnership to seeing this project through to completion.”
U.S. Representative Lynn Jenkins (KS-02): “The contract approval by DHS is further evidence that even while our nation looks for significant budget savings, we can still find funds for mission critical projects, such as those to be undertaken at the NBAF. This facility is key to the fundamental responsibility of the federal government to protect its citizens, and I am committed to continuing to do everything I can to help move this project forward.”
U.S. Representative Tim Huelskamp (KS-01): “We are excited about the progress being made and momentum for NBAF. This is a significant and decisive step toward construction of the facility, and the Administration’s commitment to the project. NBAF will be able to deliver much needed, long overdue research vital to the security of America’s food supply.”
U.S. Representative Mike Pompeo (KS-04): “This is welcome news for Kansas and the nation. NBAF will play a vital role in securing America’s food supply. We have made great progress and I will continue working in Congress to ensure this important national security project is completed.”
Representative Kevin Yoder (KS-03): “This announcement is more great news for the state of Kansas. With this agreement, Kansas will continue to take additional steps forward, and will finally begin construction on the Central Utility Plant that will power the National Bio and Agro Defense Facility. Starting construction will ensure NBAF is completed, and that Kansas continues its important national role in food security and animal health safety.”
