America’s military is the greatest military in the world. The 117th Assembly District is now one of three locations being considered for a crucial Continental United States Interceptor Site (CIS). If selected, the site will be constructed at Fort Drum and will provide critical defense from missiles launched by foreign enemies for the entire east coast. The construction of such an important piece of technology will also have a positive effect on the economy surrounding Fort Drum.

The ground-based interceptor missile has a three-to-five year construction plan with anywhere between 400 and 600 workers employed for the construction of this site. The federal government estimates that this construction activity will bring in around $1.1 million in sales revenue for the businesses in the area, and indirectly create approximately 1,800 new jobs. Overall, the construction of this CIS would add more than $190 million in value to the region. This massive investment in our community will not only do wonders to bring important jobs to the area, but will also jumpstart the economy of this region.

After the completion of this site, the operation of the facility will continue to have a positive effect on our district. It is projected that this CIS will create between 650 and 850 on site full-time jobs and will generate over $1.5 million in sales tax per year. With an added value of $27 million per year and over 300 new jobs indirectly created, this is a much-needed boon for an area of the state that has seen difficult times as of late.

I want to encourage the residents of the 117th Assembly District to contact the Missile Defense Agency with their concerns or letters of support regardingplacing a CIS at Fort Drum. Residents can contact the MDA at MDA.CIS.EIS@BC.com or mail their comments to Black & Veatch Special Projects Corp, ATTN: MDA CIS EIS, 6800 W. 115th Street, Suite 2200, Overland Park, KS 66211-2420. The Fort Drum Regional Liaison Office also hosts a petition where you can sign to show your support. This petition can be found online.

I am thankful that the Missile Defense Agency is considering opening operations here in the 117th Assembly District. This project will not only bring a sense of pride to the residents of my district, but a sense of responsibility, which we have never shied away from. I am pleased we have been selected to take part in such an important operation and look forward to the bright future that lies ahead.

I welcome your thoughts or questions on the construction of a CIS or any other legislative matter. Please contact me by emailing blankenbushk@nyassembly.gov or by calling my office at 315-493-3909.