WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, the House of Representatives authorized funding for the 182nd Airlift Wing’s fire house project after Congressman Darin LaHood successfully worked to have it included in this year’s National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA). The NDAA authorizes the spending needed to strengthen our military and national defense. Pending official allocation within the upcoming Military Construction (MILCON) appropriations legislation, the 182nd Airlift Wing’s project will allow for a new firehouse to be constructed at the base, which services the entirety of the Peoria International Airport.
“This year’s NDAA is another big win for our military, especially for the 182nd Airlift Wing based in our district. I was happy to assist them in securing this funding authorization for needed upgrades to their fire house. This project will construct a new facility that allows for fire safety to operate more effectively and efficiently at the base and the entire airport, and I will continue working with them to ensure that funding is secured for the project in upcoming appropriations bills,” said LaHood. “The other provisions in the bill will also have positive effects, as it makes key investments in our missile defense and other military capabilities while also including the largest pay raise for our troops in nine years. I was glad to see it gain strong bipartisan support today, and hope to see the same as it passes the Senate and heads to the President’s desk.”
The 182nd has been working to authorize this funding over the last several years. While the Guard has worked tirelessly to provide service to the Peoria Airport and continue to serve their mission in its existing facility it is time for an upgrade. The fire station was built in 1992 to support F-16 operations with four apparatus, staffed by 12 airmen for 8-12 hours per day. The station has quickly become outdated for its current mission and overall Guard needs as it now supports C-130, Ch-47 Chinooks, and Peoria International Airport operations 24/7/365 with 64 airmen and 14 apparatus. The new facility will now allow for the storage of all fire service equipment, safer air quality and separate sleeping facilities for those who serve at the fire station, as well as the ability to more quickly and efficiently exit and enter during emergencies.
The 182nd Airlift Wing’s mission is to provide the President of the United States, the governor of the State of Illinois and the Adjutant General of Illinois Airmen capable of providing C-130 airland and airdrop; joint terminal attack control and support; command, control and communications; logistics; civil engineering; security; and support services for the nation, State of Illinois, and domestic community.
