Overview

Phase 1 of this project is intended to fund the design and construction of infrastructure for microelectronics and related technologies supporting the Uplands defense sector. Due to delays in federal funding, the project has shifted to a microelectronics cluster strategy with multiple buildings rather than a single Foundry facility as reported before. The DoD's need for secure facilities with unique testing capabilities necessitates the critical nature of investing in the Phase I infrastructure. Multiple microelectronics companies will focus on designing and producing custom chips for the DoD in smaller quantities rather than traditional semiconductor manufacturing facilities. Our ability to attract such investments and grow their presence within the region will be nearly impossible without the necessary improvements to our infrastructure capacities serving the park. The majority of the $5 million will be allocated to hiring an engineering firm for infrastructure design and implementation. The rest of the funding will go towards expanding the utility capacities serving WestGate@Crane, including a new wastewater treatment plant, wellfield and water distribution improvements, and power improvements necessary to service the needs of our emerging microelectronics cluster.