Wyoming prepares for huge defense project

The Cheyenne Chamber of Commerce is working to rally Wyoming business to take advantage of a federal government military project which stands to be the largest economic development investment in Wyoming.

The U.S. Congress invested $90 billion into the modernization of the Intercontinental Ballistic Missile (ICBM) weapon system. Installed in the 1950’s, the land-based missiles are maintained in three U.S. locations, including F.E. Warren Air Force Base in Cheyenne.

The Chamber says a large share of that $90 billion will flow through Cheyenne. Exactly how much will depend on the details of the project, which has not been finalized.

Nationally, the project will be led by either Boeing or Northrup Grumman, which will contract with local companies to tear down and rebuild the massive underground concrete silos, telecommunications, mechanical systems, and HVAC upgrades. All of the work is likely to begin around 2020.

Greater Cheyenne Chamber of Commerce Vice President Joy Meisner-Maggard said if Wyoming companies are not prepared to take on the projects, the contractors will be forced to look elsewhere.

“We are working hard to ensure that local companies are ready to meet the demand, which will provide a major boost to the regional and state economies,” Meisner-Maggard added. “Our online resources and consultant through UW (University of Wyoming) to help navigate through the process can serve anyone in the state.”

Meisner-Maggard said companies interested in participating in the project need to get registered and approved before they can bid on projects. And, she said they need to start that process now.

Businesses can learn more about that process here.