(Space Florida) – Launch Complex Ready for Commercial Space Build Out
Today, Governor Charlie Crist, Lt. Governor Jeff Kottkamp and Space Florida President Steve Kohler were joined by Lt. General William Shelton, commander of the 14th Air Force, and Brigadier General Susan Helms, commander of Cape Canaveral’s 45th Space Wing, to host an official dedication ceremony for Launch Complex 36 at Cape Canaveral Air Force Station. This event marks the U.S. Air Force’s official “intent to lease” the site to Space Florida for build out of a launch pad that can accommodate light-to-medium lift vertical launches that support commercial, civil and military capabilities.
Addressing federal, state and local legislators, along with key aerospace leaders, Governor Crist stated, “Florida remains committed to the future legacy of space exploration and technology development. The aerospace economic cluster will create new jobs and benefit related sectors such as biotechnology and environmentally-friendly energy solutions vital to Florida’s future.”
More than 200 guests were in attendance at today’s ceremony, including federal, state and local legislators.
“We are witnessing the dawn of a new era in commercial space exploration here in Florida,” noted Lt. Governor Jeff Kottkamp. “Under the leadership of General Helms, the Air Force’s commitment to commercial space allows the State of Florida to maximize research capabilities and commercialization possibilities of the International Space Station National Laboratory.”
Steve Kohler, Space Florida President noted, “We are working with a number of commercial launch and payload customers right now that have expressed great interest in leveraging the 50 years of experience Florida has invested in space. From a strategic perspective, the build out of LC-36 is one activity in a broad array of actions to create and develop a Commercial Launch Zone, which is fundamental in establishing an effective, globally competitive economic environment for Florida and for the United States.”
Environmental assessments will be initiated in Fall 2008, followed by the build out of Pad A, which is scheduled for completion by Fall 2010. Infrastructure development will be partially funded by a $14.5 Million appropriation by the 2008 Florida Legislature.
About Space Florida:
Space Florida was created to strengthen Florida’s position as the global leader in aerospace research, investment, exploration and commerce. As Florida’s aerospace development organization, we are committed to attracting and expanding the next generation of space industry businesses. With its highly trained workforce, proven infrastructure and unparalleled record of achievement, Florida is the ideal location for aerospace businesses to thrive – and Space Florida is the perfect partner to help them succeed.
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