PHX Reporter

State lawmakers in Arizona are advocating for Yuma to become the next U.S. commercial spaceport. Representatives Justin Wilmeth and Michele Pefia, along with Senator Tim Dunn, have expressed their support for the Southwest Regional Aerospace Innovation Alliance's application to the National Science Foundation (NSF) for funding. This funding would be used to develop Yuma as a commercial and industrial spaceport.

Representative Wilmeth said, "With the new Trump administration prioritizing spaceflight and economic expansion, Arizona is ready to play a leading role." He urged officials to back the Alliance’s NSF application to ensure investment in space exploration and economic growth.

Representative Pefia highlighted Yuma's advantages: "Yuma is the ideal location for the next spaceport, offering advantages unmatched by any coastal alternative." She cited optimal weather, proximity to military assets, pro-business policies, and skilled workforce as key benefits.

The creation of a Yuma-based spaceport is expected to strengthen national security and boost economic growth. The Alliance estimates that it could generate $2 billion annually in economic activity and create thousands of jobs.

Senator Dunn expressed his support: "Yuma continues to be leaders in innovation," adding that he had previously run enabling legislation for such initiatives.

The letter of commitment from Arizona lawmakers emphasizes Yuma's strategic importance and outlines several benefits if the NSF Engines grant is approved. These include establishing a spaceport, advancing launch technologies, creating jobs, and promoting economic growth.

The proposal also highlights Yuma's unique geographic advantages for launching missions over the Sea of Cortez. This could reduce congestion at existing launch sites like Vandenberg in California and Cape Canaveral in Florida.

Arizona lawmakers urge consideration of this proposal as part of expanding U.S. space launch capabilities.

Information from this article can be found here.