The Colorado Springs area economy is poised to receive an economic boost after Colorado politicians in Washington announced today that Fort Carson will likely be home to a new Combat Air Brigade.
In a joint press release, Sens. Mark Udall, D-Colo. Michael Bennet, D-Colo. and Rep. Doug Lamborn, R-Colorado Springs, announced that an Army review recommends placing the 13th Combat Aviation Brigade at the Army post just south of Colorado Springs.
The news means that up to 2,700 soldiers and 120 helicopters will join existing units at Fort Carson the announcement said. Additionally, the release said the Army plans to order up to $224 million in construction projects to support the new brigade.
The decision is not yet official, but is expected to be so by March 7, according to the announcement.
“A new aviation brigade would bring new opportunities for job creation and economic development to southern Colorado,” Bennet said. “It would also benefit our troops by allowing Fort Carson soldiers to train more closely with the aircraft they will operate before they deploy, ensuring better preparation for combat.”
I’m ecstatic,” said Udall. “This is great news for Fort Carson and Colorado Springs.”
The announcement said that new land acquisitions would not be sought as part of the garrison increase. If officially approved, stationing would begin in fiscal year 2013 and finish the following year.
