Get Full Government Meeting Transcripts, Videos, & Alerts Forever!
Get email alerts on the Economic Development topic
No spam. Unsubscribe anytime.
Aerospace group seeks state support for rocket engine test facility and launch site
Summary
The Advanced Propulsion Association requested state appropriation for a two-phase project: a rocket engine test facility and launch-site permitting on State Trust Lands, saying the facility would support student training and estimate a $5'$8 million annual economic impact.
Representatives of the Advanced Propulsion Association (APA) told the subcommittee they seek an appropriation to build a rocket engine test facility and prepare a launch site on State Trust Lands.
Matt Ryan, APA director of development, and Brahm Soltis, director of airspace management and infrastructure, described two phases: (1) an engine test facility with multiple test stands to support students, academics and commercial users, and (2) launch-site permitting and preparation for a site capable of supporting launches up to 100,000 feet and hosting large collegiate competitions.
"We're here today for our appropriation to build a rocket test and launch facility here in Utah to develop the next generation of talent and technology," Ryan said. APA said it has identified several potential state-trust-land locations and that funds requested for the land portion would be used for permitting and approvals. The presenters estimated a $5 million to $8 million annual economic impact once operational and emphasized workforce and hands-on training benefits for university and technical college students.
Senator Milner introduced the item and emphasized the state's existing aerospace assets (Space Dynamics Lab, relevant academic programs) as complementary resources. The committee did not take a funding vote at the meeting; staff said RFAs will be scheduled into future meetings for formal consideration.
