Army releases feasibility study McConnell and Barr advocated for on behalf of the community
WASHINGTON, D.C. (Thursday, September 7, 2023) – U.S. Senate Republican Leader Mitch McConnell (R-KY) and U.S. Congressman Andy Barr (R-KY-06) commented today on the United States Army’s report on the feasibility of reusing the Blue Grass Chemical Agent-Destruction Pilot Plant and the Blue Grass Army Depot infrastructure in Richmond, Kentucky.
Senator McConnell and Congressman Barr worked together to authorize this feasibility study in the National Defense Authorization Act of 2022. Congressman Barr introduced the provision in the U.S. House of Representatives, and Senator McConnell shepherded this legislation to passage in the U.S. Senate.
This comprehensive study identifies opportunities to enhance the Depot’s role as a defense logistics node and identifies new missions for its infrastructure once the chemical munitions destruction mission concludes. The Army’s report evaluates 14 opportunities for growth of the mission at Blue Grass Army Depot and identifies multiple promising options, including new defense manufacturing facilities to provide independence from foreign suppliers and munitions components critical to national security.
“I’ve spent the last four decades securing federal funding for the chemical weapons destruction mission at Blue Grass Army Depot. Now, with the end of that project within reach, we must explore the Depot’s promising future and the expansion of its world-class facilities. The Army’s feasibility study takes us closer to shaping that future mission and unlocking new economic opportunities for Central Kentucky,” said Senator McConnell. “I look forward to further working with the Army, Congressman Barr, and the local community to ensure the continued importance of the Blue Grass Army Depot to our national security.”
“Ensuring the longevity and adaptability of the Blue Grass Army Depot has been a top priority for me in Congress. This feasibility study underscores the Depot’s potential to not only bolster our national defense but also drive economic growth in the heart of the Commonwealth. Our collaboration can transform this historic site into a linchpin of innovation, job creation, and American resilience. I remain committed to partnering with Senator McConnell, the U.S. Army, and the people of Madison County to realize this vision,” said Congressman Barr.
“I want to thank Senator McConnell and Congressman Barr for their longtime support of Madison County throughout the chemical weapons demolition mission and now, as we look to the future,” said Madison County Judge/Executive Reagan Taylor. “Blue Grass Army Depot continues to be a pillar of our local economy and our community, and I’m pleased to see the Army take strides to preserve their investment in this region.”
###
