New Lab Groundbreaking Set Oct. 31 at China Lake

Military Construction Project 453 (MILCON P-453), 20 years in the making, embodies the effort of countless individuals who, with their dedication and hard work, are making this undertaking a reality. The groundbreaking is set for October 31 at the China Lake Propulsion Laboratories (CLPL).

Mike Osburn, Weapons and Targets Department Associate for Operations said, “Congressman Bill Thomas deserves special acknowledgment for his instrumental role in securing $10.1 million from Congress, thus ensuring that the first phase of this project could go forth.” Osburn added, “The funding for the second phase, an additional $10.1 million, was approved by the House and Senate Conference in early October. The House voted to approve the conference report on Oct. 10. The rest of the project, for which funding is yet to be secured, will bring the total cost of this enterprise to more than $30 million.”

Once MILCON P-453 is completed, it will represent a much-needed rejuvenation of the CLPL facilities. The project entails the construction of 42,000 square feet of laboratory and office space, which will consolidate in a campus complex of four buildings the conduct of research, synthesis, formulation, and characterization of propellants and explosives in support of Navy weapon systems.

This new laboratory is designed to incorporate the existing functions now being performed in 35 1940s-vintage buildings strewn over different locations of the CLPL area. Ultimately, this MILCON, whose benefits include reduced maintenance costs and increased efficiency of operations and personnel, will contribute to the improvement of Navy’s warfighting capability by making the transition of energetics technology more affordable. This outcome will continue the tradition of excellence in energetic material research that has been so much a part of China Lake since its birth.

NAWCWD will celebrate the initial phase of this important and long-awaited construction with a groundbreaking ceremony on October 31, at 10am at Salt Wells. A celebratory luncheon is planned in the CLPL administration area following remarks by guest speakers. Many dignitaries, including past and present employees who helped make this dream a reality, have been invited to attend this momentous occasion.

NOTE TO EDITORS:
Due to security restrictions, attendance is by invitation only. Media wishing to attend must contact Steve Boster at 760-939-4881 or [email protected] to arrange for access.