2005 News
June 7, 2005
Commissioners Urge Bucks Countians to Voice
Support of Willow Grove Naval Air Station
Bucks County Commissioners Chairman Charles Martin, James F. Cawley
and Sandra A. Miller are urging residents to contact their state
and federal legislators in an effort to reverse the Base Realignment
and Closure (BRAC) Commission recommendation to close Willow Grove
Naval Air Station Joint Readiness Base located in Horsham.
Last month, BRAC released a list of over 800 recommended base closures. The
commission will now begin hearings to finalize a list for recommendation to
the President this fall. The ultimate decision lies in the hands of Congress.
The base employs about 2,700 military and civilian personnel from the southeast
region, and contributes close to $87 million in economic activity in the area.
In their call to residents, the Bucks County Commissioners cite homeland security
benefits the base offers, as well as concern for the economic impact to the
region.
Citizens interested in voicing their support should visit www.savewillowgrove.com to
learn more. A sample letter for elected officials can also be found on the
site.
The regional BRAC hearing for this area will be held on July 8. At least one
BRAC commissioner will visit Willow Grove before the commission presents its
final list.